We commenced the Premier League season with a 2-0 triumph over Wolves at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Following the match, Mikel Arteta addressed the media. Below are some selected quotes from the manager.
on the team continuing from where they ended last season:
Particularly in the early stages of the match, during the first half, we performed exceptionally well—very aggressive, intensely focused, and purposefully attacking. We were quick and posed a significant threat in the box. We created numerous opportunities—realistically, we should have scored two or three more, which would have changed the dynamics of the game. In the second half, there were times when we became a bit careless and lost control, especially with some turnovers, which is particularly challenging against this team. Consequently, the match became more open, but Bukayo had an outstanding moment once again to secure the 2-0 lead. After that, the game changed entirely.
on whether the team can elevate their performance this season:
When I observe the commitment, whether we will succeed or not, we must demonstrate that every day through our play and the results we acquire. It was the initial game—there is always uncertainty regarding how we will respond against a very tough opponent. We scored two goals, maintained a clean sheet, and achieved the win—all done.
on Havertz’s goal:
It was an exceptional play—everything about it, from the positioning and delivery to our positioning in the box and the way he attacked the ball. It was outstanding, a fantastic goal.
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Havertz delighted to hit the goal trail already
on whether Rice was fine at the end:
He experienced a bit of cramping. His pre-season hasn’t been the longest, but he’s truly giving his all and delivered an outstanding performance once again today.
on how close Arsenal are to reaching their potential:
I hope we are still quite a distance away—it’s just the first match, and I hope we can improve and develop as a team each week. That is our objective.
on the team’s perseverance:
We will experience better days as well as tougher ones. [At times] the opponent will influence the way you play. Today, we secured a convincing victory, albeit in a manner that differed from our usual approach, as it was what the match demanded.
on whether he is surprised teams let Saka cut onto his left foot:
You know with Messi; I fully expect him to come here and position the ball there because he does it consistently—that’s the caliber of the players.
on Raya, Rice, and Saka starting after participating in the Euro 2024 final:
I’m not surprised. That’s their mentality. Immediately following the [final], they expressed, ‘I
“I’m ready for the first game.” During the summer, I spoke with them about crafting their optimal plan. Their desire was to return early and commence preparations. They were already in training mode. This is the mindset we need. When players embody this attitude, it fosters a culture of commitment within the team, prompting everyone to elevate their performance. That’s essential for us.
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Arteta’s delight at finding way to Wolves win
on if he initially thought he’d need to leave Raya, Rice, and Saka out:
Initially, yes. It’s essential to truly comprehend where they are, what they require, and to provide them with some space to breathe. They have gone through a lot, and these young players have participated in numerous games over the past two years. However, witnessing their eagerness and genuine joy to be back is a very encouraging sign.
on how much more comfortable Havertz is in his surroundings:
Players need a period of adjustment to familiarize themselves with everyone—the club, the relationships, and the system. He has earned the confidence and respect of everyone through his actions in various situations and his performance levels.
on Raya’s save in the first half:
Unbelievable! I believe it was their first attempt. Our defense faltered in the box, but David made an incredible save.
on the clean sheet and Zinchenko starting:
We approach it game by game. Jurrien has been facing difficulties over the past few weeks and hadn’t played in the last two or three matches. Riccardo has just arrived and is acclimating to many new aspects. Both are progressing nicely, and we have healthy competition in that area, which is advantageous for the team. You could see that Alex, particularly in the first half, performed exceptionally well. In the second half, we needed a different approach, and we were able to adapt accordingly.
on speaking in pre-season about the need to get 114 points:
Initially, while in LA, someone asked me what we needed to secure the Premier League title. I mentioned ‘114 points’. However, that doesn’t imply we must achieve that. Discussing this right after our first match doesn’t resonate well. This season is a new journey, one that we hope will be beautiful, and we must commence it diligently. Today marked the first chapter; let’s create some remarkable stories while also preparing to handle the challenges ahead in the best manner possible.
Copyright 2024 The Arsenal Football Club Limited. Permission to use quotations from this article is granted subject to appropriate credit being given to www.arsenal.com as the source.
Arteta Reflects on Arsenal’s Convincing Season Opener Against Wolves
Match Overview
The opening match of the Premier League season saw Arsenal face off against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium. Under the tactical guidance of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal delivered a performance that showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity, finishing the match with a convincing 3-0 victory. This win sets a positive tone for the Gunners as they aim to compete for top honors this season.
Key Highlights from the Match
- Dominant Possession: Arsenal controlled 65% of the ball, demonstrating their intent to dictate the game’s tempo.
- Effective Pressing: The Gunners’ high pressing game troubled Wolves’ defense, resulting in several turnovers.
- Player Performances: New signings and returning stars alike were instrumental in securing the win.
Arteta’s Tactical Approach
Mikel Arteta’s tactics have evolved since taking over as head coach. His emphasis on a fluid attacking style and disciplined defending was evident in this match. Key aspects of his tactical setup included:
- Fluid Formation: Arteta deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation that allowed for versatility in attack.
- Wing Play: Utilizing the width of the pitch, Arsenal’s wingers stretched Wolves’ defense, opening up central spaces for attacking midfielders.
- Midfield Control: The partnership of Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka proved effective in controlling the midfield and linking defense with attack.
Standout Performers
| Player | Position | Performance Rating | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gabriel Jesus | Forward | 9/10 | 1 Goal, 2 Assists |
| Martin Ødegaard | Midfielder | 8/10 | 1 Goal, 4 Key Passes |
| Ben White | Defender | 8/10 | Solid Defensive Work, 2 Interceptions |
| Aaron Ramsdale | Goalkeeper | 7/10 | 2 Crucial Saves |
Arteta’s Post-Match Reflections
In his post-match interview, Mikel Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of starting the season on a positive note. Key points from Arteta’s reflections include:
- Confidence Building: The win has built confidence within the squad as they look to carry this momentum into the coming fixtures.
- Team Unity: Arteta praised the team spirit and chemistry on the pitch, which played a crucial role in their victory.
- Focus on Improvement: While satisfied, Arteta highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining focus during transitions.
Match Statistics
The following statistics illustrate Arsenal’s dominance in the match:
| Statistic | Arsenal | Wolves |
|---|---|---|
| Shots on Target | 8 | 3 |
| Total Shots | 15 | 5 |
| Corner Kicks | 6 | 2 |
| Fouls Committed | 10 | 12 |
Benefits of Arteta’s Philosophy
Arteta’s philosophy is proving beneficial for Arsenal in several ways:
- Enhanced Player Development: Young talents are being nurtured under Arteta’s guidance, showcasing their potential.
- Attractive Style of Play: Fans are treated to an exciting brand of football that emphasizes attacking play and entertainment.
- Stronger Team Cohesion: The emphasis on collective effort has fostered a sense of unity among players, crucial for team success.
Looking Ahead: Arsenal’s Upcoming Fixtures
With the morale high from their season opener, Arsenal will face several critical matches in the coming weeks. Here’s a look at their next three fixtures:
| Opponent | Date | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| West Ham | August 20, 2023 | Premier League |
| Manchester United | August 27, 2023 | Premier League |
| Brighton | September 3, 2023 | Premier League |
Conclusion: A Promising Start to the Season
As Arsenal continues its campaign under Mikel Arteta, fans and pundits alike are optimistic about the team’s potential. The convincing season opener against Wolves not only boosts morale but also showcases a solid foundation for a successful season ahead. With tactical acumen, player performances, and a dedicated fanbase, Arsenal looks poised to make a significant impact in the Premier League this year.
