"We didn’t find enough answers to a lot of the questions" - Mikel Arteta reacts as Arsenal lose to Newcastle in PL clash
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has reacted to their 1-0 loss against Newcastle United in their Premier League clash at St. James Park on Saturday, November 2. The manager saw his side struggle to create quality chances, with Declan Rice having their best chance, but missing the target.
An early goal from Alexander Isak (12') put Newcastle ahead, and the Magpies spent the rest of the game keeping the Gunners at bay. Speaking about the loss with TNT Sports, Mikel Arteta revealed his frustration, saying:
"Well, I thought we started really well in the game. We were very dominant, but in the best moment, we didn't defend the box well enough. Pretty much they put an unbelievable delivery and hit it in the box. And from there, the game changes.
"You know, when you have to face this team, the moment they go ahead, you're going to start to play a different game. You have to adapt to that. We didn't do well enough. We didn't find enough answers to a lot of the questions and situations, and you have to resolve better. So I think I'm very frustrated."
When asked about the chances Arsenal created, he responded:
"We only had moments that we created two or three big chances because they didn't really create much at all. But, yeah, that was a difference in the game... We had two big chances... But, yeah, on those games, especially when you are away and they defend after that sort of thing."
He also spoke about their upcoming games against Inter Milan and Chelsea in the coming days, adding:
"We can say whatever we want. Probably we're not going to find the right words to say because after losing the game, you are hurt. But we have to show it on the pitch on Wednesday night [against Inter]."
Arsenal will have to set this loss behind them and focus on their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against Inter Milan on November 6 at San Siro. Their next Premier League match is also away from home against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on November 10.
How Arsenal fared in their 1-0 loss to Newcastle
Arsenal went into the match expecting to win, but a quality header from Isak dented their chances, and they ended the game without any points. Aside from the clinical aspect, they were the better side, holding onto the ball more (64% possession) than Newcastle.
They also had more shots (10) but only one was on target, while the Magpies had nine shots with four on target. Arsenal made 430 passes (86% accuracy), while their opponents had just 199 passes (69% accuracy).
The Gunners have now dropped into fourth place on the Premier League table with 18 points, with Nottingham Forest overtaking them. They could still end up lower at the end of this matchweek if other teams like Aston Villa win their respective games. They are seven points leaders Liverpool and five behind Manchester City.