Mikel Arteta's 'handbrake' tactics are ripped apart by Jamie Carragher and Roy Keane as Arsenal boss is accused of 'wasting 45 minutes' during 1-1 draw with Man City - and told he praises his players too much
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Former footballers Jamie Carragher and Roy Keane sharply criticized Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta's tactics during the 1-1 draw with Manchester City, describing them as a "handbrake" that stifled Arsenal's potential comeback.
Carragher argued that Arsenal wasted the first 45 minutes by playing too cautiously, particularly in midfield, which allowed Manchester City to control the game. He suggested that Arteta’s conservative approach led to Arsenal conceding unnecessary possession and momentum early on. Keane echoed this by saying Arsenal’s tactics were overly defensive and suppressed the team’s natural attacking instincts, preventing them from building sustained pressure on City.
The criticism centers on Arteta’s perceived overly cautious midfield setup, which, while designed to contain Manchester City's strength, resulted in Arsenal relinquishing control and squandering opportunities to press high or attack more freely. Both Carragher and Keane implied that this approach hindered Arsenal’s capacity to mount a stronger challenge and potentially win the match.
Despite Arsenal managing a comeback to level the score, the analysts felt that the tactical restraints imposed by Arteta acted like a "handbrake" on the team’s overall performance. This cautious style was seen as limiting Arsenal's ambition and fluidity, especially in the opening half, where City dominated possession and dictated the tempo.
Arteta, however, has defended his team selection and strategic choices, emphasizing the need for balance and structure in facing a formidable opponent like Manchester City. Yet the consensus among expert commentators remains that a more proactive tactical approach from the outset could have yielded better control and possibly a victory for Arsenal.
PP