Mikel Arteta batted questions about the dramatic fall-out from the Man City draw on Sunday (Image: Getty)
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has responded to Manchester City’s dark arts criticism by claiming he has ‘all the information’ about his title rivals’ own methods.
Having served as Pep Guardiola’s assistant for three-and-a-half seasons, Arteta hinted at the need for discretion due to his past relationships at the Etihad.
However, following criticism from four City players regarding his team’s game management in Sunday’s heated 2-2 draw, Arteta retorted: “I have been [worked] there before. I was there for four years. I have all the information. So I know. Believe me.”
Arteta took umbrage at the critique of his tactical approach after Leandro Trossard’s red card. He highlighted City’s own game management skills, citing their attempt to slow down the game while waiting to bring on Mateo Kovacic for the injured Rodri.
When Arsenal briefly had a numerical advantage, Ilkay Gundogan fouled Thomas Partey, and Bernardo Silva prevented Trossard from taking a quick free kick by shielding the ball.
Arteta said: “We had to play the game that we had to play. The first 10, 15 minutes, we couldn’t with 11 versus 11. Then we got much better.
“Then we were thrown in a very different context and did what every team does. They played 30 seconds with 10 men. Look what they did for 30 seconds. It’s normal what they did. We had to do it in a different way.”
Four Arsenal players needed medical attention during the second half at the Etihad, prompting City frustration.
But Arteta said that one of his stars, whom he did not name, may be set for a spell on the sidelines, while arguing his line-up for the Carabao Cup clash against Bolton will highlight if they were “faking” injury.
David Raya, who has been a stand-out performer for Arsenal this season, is one of the doubts due to a thigh issue, meaning 16-year-old Jack Porter could be handed a debut.
Neto is cup-tied having featured in the previous round for Bournemouth before his loan move to the Emirates.
“If a player is faking something that means he will carry on and be involved in the squad and play,” Arteta added.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1952839/Arsenal-Mikel-Arteta-Man-City-title