In their Premier League matchday 3 fixture at Anfield, manager Mikel Arteta opted for a defensive midfield trio of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino.
Throughout the 90 minutes, Arsenal rarely ventured forward and managed only one shot on target, a tame effort from Noni Madueke in the first half. The match was ultimately decided by Dominik Szoboszlai's stunning free-kick.
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Mikel Merino (right) battles with Alexis Mac Allister during Arsenal's 0-1 loss to Liverpool in their Premier League matchday 3 encounter at Anfield, Liverpool, Merseyside, England, on 31/8/2025. Photo: Arsenal FC |
Mikel Merino (right) battles with Alexis Mac Allister during Arsenal's 0-1 loss to Liverpool in their Premier League matchday 3 encounter at Anfield, Liverpool, Merseyside, England, on 31/8/2025. Photo: Arsenal FC
Speaking on Viaplay, Schmeichel criticized Arsenal's overly pragmatic approach. "I've never wanted a team to win as much as I wanted Liverpool to win today," the former Danish goalkeeper said. "Arsenal are bringing an ugly style of football to the league. Arteta, let the players play, let them express themselves freely. I'm sure if he does that, Arsenal will win more games."
Schmeichel argued that Arsenal's cautious approach made the highly anticipated match less exciting than expected. "For a game to be exciting, both teams need to play," he continued. "But here, only Liverpool tried to attack. I don't mean to offend, but Arsenal's style of play is really frustrating, mainly waiting for the opponent to slip up and looking for opportunities from set pieces."
Similarly, Roy Keane emphasized the need for Arsenal to be more creative and less predictable. He suggested that while Arteta's team deserves credit for their solid defense and threat from set pieces, they need to take more risks if they want to win at Anfield.
"If you only rely on set pieces, it's very difficult to beat Liverpool. Arsenal have to do something different, be less mechanical, and more surprising in attack," the former Manchester United captain told Sky Sports.
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Eberechi Eze came on as a substitute in the 70th minute. Photo: Arsenal FC |
Eberechi Eze came on as a substitute in the 70th minute. Photo: Arsenal FC
Gary Neville questioned Arsenal's mentality in big games, especially away from home. The former England defender suggested that Liverpool possess something Arsenal lack: the belief and sharpness to win at the most challenging grounds.
"Liverpool believe they have to win these games, while Arsenal aren't so sure," Neville said. "Arsenal are happy not to lose, and that's costing them."
Jamie Carragher pointed out that Arsenal invested heavily this summer to bring in attacking players like Eberechi Eze, Viktor Gyokeres, and Noni Madueke, but haven't changed their style of play. "They still rely heavily on set pieces and don't create many chances from open play, despite being considered one of the best defenses in Europe," the former Liverpool defender commented.
Hong Duy (via Daily Mail, Sky Sports)
