Coach Arteta remains steadfast in defending Gyokeres after missing the chance to extend the lead over Man City

After netting a goal against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, Viktor Gyokeres returned to his familiar subdued performance in the goalless draw against Nottingham Forest, but Coach Mikel Arteta firmly defended him before the press.

Arsenal left Nottingham Forest with just one point after a 0-0 stalemate, and Coach Mikel Arteta openly expressed his frustration, believing his team deserved all three points. In the post-match press conference, the Spanish strategist emphasized that Arsenal created enough chances to finish off their opponents and was upset about a penalty that was not awarded.

"Clearly, we came here aiming to win, but for various reasons, we didn’t succeed. Credit to the opponent, as they were very well organized and skilled at disrupting the rhythm when you have control phases. However, the fact remains that we created four very clear chances. Not to mention a very obvious penalty in the box that was not given. So, when you prevent the opponent from having a single shot on target yet still can’t win, it’s truly disappointing. Also, I believe we could have performed better, especially in some attacking aspects".

Although only drawing, Arsenal extended their lead over Man City in the standings to 7 points, because in the previous match Pep Guardiola’s team suffered a 0-2 defeat to MU. "Every week is an opportunity. We want to win every match and if we did, our position would be different. But today, we only took a smaller step than desired, yet it’s still progress", Arteta said.

Analyzing the attacking side further, Arteta noted the match was unusual. Nottingham Forest deliberately drew Arsenal into chaotic plays, and Arsenal lacked composure in “two to three passes” after regaining possession to properly control key areas.

"We were somewhat impatient in the two or three decisive passes needed to place the ball in the right area, allowing better control of the game and reducing the frequency of chaotic moments. Credit must be given to the opponent, as in every match I’ve watched them play, they are very hard to break down. Therefore, when you get chances, you must take them, because doing so changes the entire scenario".

One notable detail was the decision to adjust the wings. Arteta explained Bukayo Saka had played many minutes and suffered a slight injury before the match, so Arsenal had to manage his workload.

"Bukayo had played a lot of minutes and had a minor issue before the match, so we needed to manage the player. We have many excellent players who can provide different options. We tried from the start of the game, then continued after the break by taking greater risks and introducing more attacking choices. We tried everything, but unfortunately, it still wasn’t enough", Arteta expressed regret.

After scoring against Chelsea, Viktor Gyokeres once again fell silent upon returning to the Premier League. Regarding the Swedish striker, Arteta said: ""At this level, we need players who are decisive, who can score and create moments that unlock matches and turn the tide. We failed to do that, and that is everyone’s responsibility."

Regarding the suggestion to bring Eze on earlier, Arteta admitted: "Yes, but we also have other options. Given the space we can create and the way the opponent defends, finding gaps inside the box is very difficult, as is creating chaotic moments like we had—opportunities that should have resulted in goals."

Finally, Arteta returned to the controversial penalty incident near the end. He asserted the ball touched the shoulder before the opponent controlled it with the hand. According to Arteta: "They are correct that the ball hit the shoulder before the hand. The explanation is not accurate, but the other factors are fine. The sequence is correct, but the timing and intent of the player are very clear. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be sitting here saying, from my point of view, that was a very clear penalty".