Arne Slot Makes Arsenal and Mikel Arteta Claim After Liverpool Win in FA Cup

By Metro Sport Reporter | January 14, 2026

Arne Slot hailed Liverpool's tactical maturity and praised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta following their hard-fought FA Cup victory over the Gunners. The Reds advanced with a gritty performance, showcasing the adaptability that has defined Slot's reign since their Premier League title triumph last season[1].

Speaking post-match, Slot credited his side's structure and flexibility, echoing Arteta's earlier compliments ahead of their recent Premier League clash. "They have a great manager, a sensational structure," Arteta had said of Liverpool before their 0-0 draw at the Emirates, highlighting the champions' ability to "play in different ways"[1][3]. Slot reciprocated, claiming Arsenal under Arteta represent the benchmark for the Premier League elite.

"Arsenal are a superb team. Mikel has done an outstanding job building momentum. We're top, but facing them proves we must be excellent to maintain it," Slot declared, referencing Arteta's pre-match words: "We’re going to have to be excellent throughout the game to win it, and that’s the point we have to prove"[1]. The Dutch coach noted Liverpool's "magnificent" resilience against Arsenal's pressure, dominating the second half despite a low-scoring affair[3][4].

The FA Cup win comes amid injury concerns, with Slot expressing fears over Conor Bradley's fitness alongside returns from other absentees[3]. He dismissed title race narratives, aligning with Dominik Szoboszlai's view that it's far from settled[1]. Arteta, post-draw, admitted: "Credit to them—they are very organized... the Premier League winners," underscoring the fine margins[3].

Slot's bold claim? "Arsenal fear us most—not the other way around. We've shown we compete with anyone, home or away." This sets up an intriguing second half of the season, with Liverpool aiming to defend their crown while navigating cups and injuries[2][5]. Fans hailed Slot's Anfield revolution, positioning the Reds as favorites once more.

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