Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has called on his teammates to use their recent losses as motivation, not fear, after a significant defeat to Manchester United that has tightened the race for the Premier League title.
The Gunners’ lead at the top of the table was reduced from seven points to four after a late goal by Matheus Cunha led United to a 3-2 victory at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Although still positioned first for their first league title in 22 years, Arsenal fans may be feeling the pressure of finishing as runners-up for three consecutive seasons.
Odegaard, however, dismissed concerns that the crowd’s anxiety was affecting the players, instead calling for a strong sense of unity. “I didn’t feel that,” he said when asked about the atmosphere during the match.
Mikel Arteta watched his team falter in the title race on Sunday (Action Images via Reuters)
He acknowledged the impact of previous seasons, noting, “Obviously finishing second for three consecutive seasons is a factor, but it can also motivate you. It provides more fuel and a stronger desire to succeed.”
Odegaard emphasized the challenging nature of the league and the importance of collective resilience. “We’ve learned over these seasons that it’s a long journey and many things can happen. Now it’s about sticking together more than ever, focusing on the next game, and bouncing back,” he said.
“It’s tough in this league. Success doesn’t come easily. We need to keep working and pushing forward. We’re still at the top of the league and in a good position,” he added.
Reflecting on the defeat to United, he remarked, “We are disappointed with the loss. We should have won that game. But that’s football, with its ups and downs. What matters now is how we respond.”
Next, Arsenal will turn their focus to the Champions League, preparing to host Kazakh side Kairat on Wednesday, as they aim for a perfect group stage record.
Meanwhile, Manchester United appears to be experiencing a revival under interim coach Michael Carrick.
Back-to-back victories against Manchester City and Arsenal have reintroduced a positive atmosphere at the club. United now sits in the top four, ahead of Chelsea by one point and two clear of Liverpool.
Senne Lammens has praised interim boss Michael Carrick (Martin Rickett/PA) (PA Wire)
Goalkeeper Senne Lammens credited Carrick’s success to a focus on the basics of the game. “It hasn’t been anything particularly special that he has done, to be honest,” Lammens commented.
“It’s about adhering to fundamentals. Football is about the basics. When those are executed well, the quality shines through, and we have players who can make a difference.”
Lammens applauded the team’s tactical discipline, stating, “We were positioned correctly and defended well as a unit. He clearly articulates his expectations, and if we fight and believe in that, we can secure victories.”
He concluded on a positive note, declaring, “It’s now up to us. We’re in the top four, and we need to maintain our position.”