Mikel Arteta was visibly upset following Arsenal’s 1-0 loss to West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium, a defeat that ended their 15-match unbeaten run and left them eight points behind Liverpool in the Premier League title race. Jarrod Bowen’s goal just before halftime proved decisive, while a red card for Myles Lewis-Skelly in the 73rd minute further complicated Arsenal’s chances.
Arteta expressed his disappointment and anger during the post-match press conference. “Very disappointed, obviously very angry as well,” he stated. He emphasized that Arsenal failed to meet the required standards for winning a Premier League game, despite having numerous shots on goal.
“I am very much responsible for that so I am very, very angry,” Arteta added. He refused to blame injuries or player absences for the defeat, instead focusing on his team’s overall performance.
Arsenal managed 20 shots but only two were on target. Despite this effort, Arteta felt they lacked quality across all positions. “We didn’t hit the levels today… That was nowhere near the levels we have to hit to have an opportunity to win a Premier League game,” he said.
The absence of key attackers like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli did not excuse what he saw as subpar play from his entire squad, Mikel Merino played out of position as a makeshift striker due to these injuries.
With Liverpool potentially extending their lead further against Manchester City on Sunday, Arsenal’s title aspirations are now precarious. The Gunners face Nottingham Forest next week without Lewis-Skelly due to suspension.
Arteta urged his team to reflect on their mistakes and return stronger: “First we will suffer for 24 hours and feel the pain… Then we make sure we come back with bite and anger instilled in us”.
In summary, Arteta holds himself accountable for Arsenal’s poor performance against West Ham and emphasizes that they must improve significantly if they hope to remain competitive in the title race.