k“Don’t get carried away by that lucky win”: Gary Neville has explained his reasons for doubting Arsenal’s chances of securing another Premier League title.
The former Manchester United right-back expressed his belief that Arsenal’s lack of creativity could ultimately undermine their title aspirations, highlighting the subdued reaction from players after their recent victory over Liverpool as evidence of dwindling confidence in their championship prospects.
Speaking on Sky Sports post-match, Neville observed that the team’s reaction seemed more like relief than jubilation, suggesting a sense of resignation about their dwindling title hopes.
He echoed sentiments from Gael Clichy about Arsenal’s need to be more ruthless, particularly in the final third, contrasting them with Liverpool, whom he views as more clinical.
Neville, who initially tipped Arsenal for title success, pointed to what he deemed as immature celebrations from the Gunners after their triumph over Liverpool.
Despite an impressive first-half display and a lead secured by Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s momentum was tempered by an own goal from Gabriel Magalhaes just before halftime.
While Liverpool mounted a spirited second-half comeback, defensive errors from Virgil van Dijk and Alisson allowed Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard to extend Arsenal’s lead. However, a red card for Ibrahima Konate marred the victory.
Neville, alongside Jamie Carragher, criticized Arsenal’s exuberant celebrations, attributing his own disapproval to concerns about the team’s lack of a killer instinct in crucial moments.
Despite acknowledging Arsenal’s well-coached system and style of play, Neville emphasized their deficiency in finishing chances, a weakness he believes could cost them dearly in the latter stages of the season.
He highlighted Liverpool’s attacking depth, citing the likes of Diogo Jota, Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, and Sadio Mane as formidable threats that Arsenal may struggle to match.
Neville speculated that Arsenal’s inability to convert opportunities with the same efficiency as Liverpool could hinder their title bid.
Regarding the celebrations, Neville tempered his criticism, acknowledging that while he no longer condemns teams for celebrating, he perceives a degree of immaturity in Arsenal’s reactions.
Nevertheless, he conceded that the relief of avoiding a larger deficit in the title race may have contributed to the exuberance displayed by the Arsenal players.
