Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and midfielder Mikel Merino shared their thoughts on the team’s dramatic 2-1 win over Newcastle United.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed pride in his team’s performance after a thrilling 2-1 win over Newcastle United. “I feel pride,” Arteta said, highlighting the team’s deserved win despite the dramatic fashion in which it was achieved. “We fully deserved the win after the way we played, performed, and competed.”
Arteta praised the team’s consistency and quality, noting that they had generated numerous chances throughout the match. “The level of consistency and quality we showed was top,” he said, emphasizing the importance of winning in tough away matches. “We want to achieve the next level, and to do that, you have to come to these places and you have to win.”
The match saw several dramatic moments, including Viktor Gyokeres’ penalty being overturned. Arteta commented on the VAR decision, stating, “If it’s not a clear and obvious error, VAR should not intervene.” Despite the controversy, Arsenal remained focused and ultimately secured the win.
Mikel Merino, the scorer of the equaliser, shared his emotions after the match. “It is unbelievable to win these kinds of games, late winners are the best,” Merino said. Scoring against his former club added to the special nature of the moment.
Merino reflected on his time at Newcastle, saying, “Coming back here is always big for me, I have big memories here.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to score and help his team secure the win. “It is magical.”
When asked if the win would boost the team’s mentality, Merino replied, “Maybe for the fans or for you guys, but not for us.” He emphasized the team’s confidence and trust in each other, stating, “We know how well we have been playing.” Merino highlighted the team’s character and confidence, which he believes remains unchanged regardless of the result.
Arteta also commented on the team’s attacking substitutions, saying, “We had to throw everything we had.” He praised Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope, who made several exceptional saves throughout the match. “Nick Pope was exceptional, fair play to him,” Arteta said.
