Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta didn't mince words following his team's narrow 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Emirates Stadium, slamming their defensive performance as "unacceptable". Despite securing a late win, Arteta voiced concerns about the "horrible defensive habits" that nearly cost them the match against a struggling Wolves side.
The Gunners, who are currently leading the Premier League, appeared to be on course for a comfortable win after an own goal from Wolves' Sam Johnstone broke the deadlock. However, Wolves fought back, with Tolu Arokodare equalizing in the 90th minute, leaving Arsenal facing a disappointing draw. Another own goal, this time from Yerson Mosquera in stoppage time, spared Arsenal's blushes and secured a crucial three points.
Arteta acknowledged the fortunate nature of the win but emphasized the need for significant improvement. "It was a relief, but we have a very clear understanding that the margins should have been bigger," he stated. He criticized his team's lapse in concentration after creating more chances in the second half. "After that, we had a period of two or three minutes in deep, totally passive, with horrible defensive habits that are nowhere near the levels required," Arteta lamented. He also pointed out that Wolves' equaliser came from their first real chance of the game, highlighting the "unforgiving nature of the Premier League".
Arsenal's defensive woes were compounded by an injury to Ben White, who was forced off the pitch with a hamstring issue. With Gabriel, Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori already sidelined, Arteta is facing a shortage of options in defence. He admitted that he had to risk playing William Saliba for the entire 90 minutes despite a previous knee issue due to limited alternatives. "We were essentially gambling with our lineup," Arteta explained.
Despite the victory, Arteta stressed the importance of learning from the game and addressing the defensive issues. He emphasized that standards and habits can deteriorate without proper training and that the team needs to reset and prepare for the upcoming Christmas period. "When we don't train, there are things that slowly deteriorate, and certain habits start to deteriorate because you don't train them," he said.
The Arsenal manager called for his side to be "full gas" from the first minute to the last, demanding a higher level of focus and intensity. He also credited Wolves for making the game difficult but admitted that Arsenal had made it even harder for themselves.
Looking ahead, Arteta emphasized the need to improve their defensive solidity, especially against teams that can capitalize on mistakes. Arsenal's victory keeps them at the top of the Premier League, but Arteta's warnings underscore the fragility beneath the surface.
