McManaman: Arteta's Tactics Leave Arsenal Forwards to Shoulder the Blame

Former Liverpool and Real Madrid forward Steve McManaman expressed sympathy for Arsenal forwards Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz following the team's 2-1 victory over Slavia Prague. McManaman stated that he feels sorry for the players because they often receive the blame for the club's cautious style of play. He noted that the forwards are frequently isolated during matches, a situation he believes stems from Mikel Arteta's tactical setup.

The result kept Arsenal unbeaten in the current Champions League season. The Gunners are currently in third place after four league phase matches. They have defeated Napoli and Lille and drew 2-2 with Bayern Munich. This performance places them behind only two other teams in the standings. The win came at the Fortuna Arena in Prague.

Noni Madueke and Gyokeres scored in the first half to secure the win. Gyokeres provided the assist for Madueke's goal with a hooked pass in the ninth minute. Gyokeres then scored the second goal shortly before halftime, beating goalkeeper Nazar Domchak with a shot that hit the upright. Wiktor Nowak scored a late goal for Slavia Prague in the second half. This was Arsenal's first loss of the season, a 3-0 defeat to Brighton in the Premier League last month, making this a strong run of form.

McManaman analyzed Gyokeres' performance in detail. He praised the Sweden international for his first-half display, noting that the team was compact and close to him. However, McManaman argued that Arsenal became disheveled in the second half. He said the team stretched out, leaving Gyokeres isolated up top. McManaman stated that Gyokeres looked better when the team moved together as a unit in attack and defense.

The former England international suggested that Arsenal is not known for being an entertaining team. He compared them to Barcelona, noting that they defend deep and as a whole group. This defensive approach means there is a long distance to cover to reach the opponent's goal. McManaman argued that this makes the forwards' job difficult. He said that Gyokeres and Havertz often get the blame for this lack of flair, even though midfielders and defenders are usually the focus of conversation in other contexts.

McManaman addressed the selection debate between Gyokeres and Havertz. He noted that Arteta tends to revert to Havertz for big games. He cited Havertz's performance against Liverpool as evidence of his importance in high-pressure matches. McManaman said he believes Arteta trusts Havertz slightly more. He pointed out that Gyokeres had a major impact against Slavia Prague with a goal and an assist. McManaman predicted that Arteta would likely start Havertz in the upcoming match against Hull on Saturday.

Mikel Arteta praised Gyokeres' performance after the match. He highlighted the striker's connection with his teammates. Arteta said the game suited Gyokeres because of the spaces available against Slavia Prague's defensive structure. He noted that Gyokeres understood when to appear and when to threaten. Arteta said this was great news for the player, who needed a strong performance. He also addressed the issue of starting time, stating that every player wants to play every game. Arteta emphasized that players need to impact the game when given the opportunity.

Arsenal will return to Premier League action on Saturday. They will host Hull City at home. The team is looking to continue their strong run of results. The upcoming match will be a test of their consistency against a different style of play. Arteta's team has shown resilience in the Champions League so far this season.