Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his satisfaction with his team’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool on Sunday. However, he couldn’t help but lament the growing number of injuries, particularly the loss of two key defenders in a clash against their Premier League title contenders.
The match saw the London club already without their captain and long-term absentee Martin Odegaard, as well as defender Riccardo Calafiori due to injury. Additionally, defender William Saliba was unavailable due to suspension. The situation worsened when defensive linchpin Gabriel Magalhaes and left-sided Jurrien Timber were both forced off the field during the second half, leaving Arsenal with a makeshift defense.
Arteta expressed his disappointment at not securing a victory but also conveyed his pride in the team, given the challenging circumstances they are currently facing. He emphasized the need to adapt to the situation and commended the players for their incredible determination and courage displayed during the match. Arteta called for support from the club and fans, urging them to praise the players for their remarkable performance.
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He mentioned that the full extent of Sunday’s injuries was still unknown. There were uncertainties regarding Timber’s fitness prior to the match on Sunday. Regarding Gabriel, Arteta stated: “He couldn’t run. I’m unsure if it’s the knee joint or the ankle.” One positive aspect was Bukayo Saka’s return after missing last weekend’s loss to Bournemouth due to an injury sustained while on international duty with England. Saka gave Arsenal the lead in the ninth minute by sprinting onto Ben White’s lofted pass, cutting inside Andy Robertson, and shooting past Caoimhin Kelleher at the near post for Arsenal’s 50th Premier League goal. “I had this game in mind, and I was determined to do everything possible to make a comeback for this match,” Saka told Sky Sports.
Arteta expressed that he would rather be five points ahead of champions and league leaders Manchester City than trailing by five points, although he added: “The team is still fighting, and the team wants it.” Arsenal currently sit in third place with 18 points, trailing Liverpool with 22 points and City with 23 points. The Gunners are hopeful for the return of their captain and playmaker Odegaard, who has been sidelined since September.
The Norwegian mentioned in the matchday program notes that he was nearing a comeback, but Arteta stated later on that he still had some distance to go. “This is football. Our circumstances will ultimately enhance us, they are already enhancing us,” Arteta remarked.
