The Arsenal manager expressed his elation as his squad recovered from a pair of consecutive stalemates in the Premier League.
Mikel Arteta declared that Arsenal “showed what we’re made of” when they answered the disappointment of the midweek with a decisive 4-1 triumph against Tottenham on their home ground in the North London derby.
A brace of goals each from Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres cemented a resounding victory, propelling the Gunners five points ahead at the Premier League’s summit.
This strong showing occurred mere days after Arsenal relinquished a late advantage in a 2-2 tie at Wolves.
Arteta conceded that the way that outcome had slipped away had caused the team considerable anguish.
“It feels like we showed what we are made of,” he commented. “However, one must demonstrate this repeatedly, as merely analyzing one’s emotions after each match creates huge emotional swings that are not sustainable.
“I could not feel more pride or joy for the display witnessed, but particularly given the experience of the preceding 72 hours, as I believe this specific game demanded a certain background.”
Arsenal had faced criticism for permitting Wolves to level the score with practically the final touch of the match, and Arteta made no secret of the challenge in assimilating the event.
“Following the incident with Wolves and the way we forfeited two points with the final kick of the game, it was arduous,” he remarked. “Yet, that’s the allure of this sport.
There is no conceivable rationale, upon reviewing the match, for how we could possibly have drawn that game. Regardless of the perspective, one can re-examine it and declare ‘it’s inconceivable,’ and then revisit it and assert it won’t recur.
“Yet, it transpired, and subsequently, you must recompose yourself because you’re experiencing fury, distress, and moments of shame. Given our diverse backgrounds and varied emotions, the task then becomes to unite everyone. It’s been delightful to dedicate that period together with them, to harmonize the collective, and to pose the question, ‘Alright, what unfolds in the subsequent phase?’”
Sunday’s derby offered a definitive response. After Randal Kolo Muani momentarily equalized for Spurs in the first half, Arsenal established dominance following the break, netting three goals to clinch a fifth consecutive league triumph over their rivals, marking their most successful streak in this encounter since 1989.
Both Arsenal and Manchester City now enjoy a fixture-free week, with City possessing a match in reserve in the title race.
Upon the suggestion that Pep Guardiola might grant his players a short celebratory respite, Arteta dismissed the notion with a smile.
“I abstain from cocktails,” he stated. “Therefore, no, we will pursue our distinct approach.
“The volume of matches we are contesting across every competition is simply staggering, and it affords an opportunity to truly pause, evaluate our current strategy, and re-engage until the international break. We anticipate a plethora of subsequent matches.”