Wenger Blasts Arsenal Duo After Tense United Showdown

Wenger's Take on Arsenal's Strain vs United

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says two core players are buckling under the title-race pressure, signaling a change in the dynamic for Mikel Arteta's side.

Arsenal suffered their first home defeat of the season, a 3-2 loss to Manchester United on Sunday, cutting the lead to four points.

Though still chasing their first league title since 2024, Arsenal have failed to win in their last three matches, allowing Manchester City and Aston Villa to close in.

What Went Wrong: Tactical Strains and Key Moments

Wenger told BeIN Sports that the hunger to win has brought impatience in build-ups and ball progression. He contrasted Arsenal's approach with United's balance between defensive solidity and technical quality, praising Michael Carrick's side.

He also noted tension in the performances of the central duo William Saliba and Gabriel, analyzing United's opening goal and saying Saliba should have covered rather than stepping forward, staying behind to shield the ball.

Concluding, Wenger argued that beating three goals required both teams to show different aspects of play: United's goals were well-built and in sync, while Arsenal's came more from fight and premature set-piece power rather than controlled open play. Arsenal gave their all but lacked in first-half patience and technical cohesion.

PUNCHLINE 1: Arsenal's build-up was so slow, even a glacier would file a complaint for stealing its thunder.

PUNCHLINE 2: If timing is everything, Arsenal's clock seems stuck on 'in a minute'.