Mikel Arteta: Arsenal boss responds to 'bottlers' jibe after Wolves draw - This word is not in my vocabulary

React to this story

Mikel Arteta has brushed off claims that Arsenal are “bottlers” following their surrender of a two-goal lead against bottom-of-the-table Wolves, insisting the term has no place in his vocabulary. The 2-2 draw handed a lifeline to Premier League rivals Manchester City, who could clinch the title if they win all 12 of their remaining matches - including a crucial showdown with Arsenal at the Etihad.

Arteta: The word 'bottlers' is not in my vocabulary

Video credit: SNTV

Mikel Arteta has dismissed talk of Arsenal being "bottlers" after his side surrendered a two-goal lead against bottom-of-the-table Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday, insisting the term has no place in his vocabulary.

Arsenal’s 2-2 draw handed a lifeline to Premier League rivals Manchester City, who could claim the title if they win all their remaining 12 matches - including a pivotal clash with The Gunners at the Etihad Stadium in April.

Despite the setback at Molineux, Arsenal remain five points clear at the top, albeit having played an additional game.

Transfers

Vinicius decision 'imminent', Barcola's Liverpool contract 'agreed' - Euro Transfer News

an hour ago

During Friday's press conference to preview Sunday's derby away to Tottenham, Arteta was challenged on how the term "bottlers" has circulated over the past couple of days about his side.

"That's individual opinion, perspective, and you have to respect that," Arteta said. "You lose two points against Wolves in the manner that the game played out, and you have to take it on the chin. That’s it. It’s part of our role.

"But [the term 'bottlers'] is not part of my vocabulary and I don’t see it like this, because I don’t think anybody wants to do that as an intention. I wouldn’t use that word."

'The Premier League is the big one' - Keown hopes Arsenal can wake up after Wolves shock

Video credit: TNT Sports

Arsenal carry the scars of finishing runners-up in the past three seasons and the draw against Wolves has reignited scrutiny over their ability to deliver under pressure.

Arteta remained defiant, highlighting the club’s strong positions in other competitions.

"We are exactly where we want to be in every competition," he continued.

"So, keeping calm, keeping my eyes open, my ears open, and understanding what the players need to give their best. What I’ve seen [from the players] is a tremendous reaction. And I’m not surprised at all," he said.

The Gunners are through to face City in the final of next month's Carabao Cup, won all eight of their Champions League league phase matches and are heavy favourites to reach the Emirates FA Cup quarter-finals with a fifth-round tie at Mansfield Town in March, live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Arteta acknowledged the recent league form, with just two wins in their past seven games, but said the onus is on him alone. "When we haven’t been at our standards, I take full responsibility for that. I don’t think I have ever pointed at a single player or the team.

‘He was a pioneer’ – Madueke on inspiration from Ronaldo’s spell at Man Utd

Video credit: TNT Sports

"I can talk about standards, yes, and in the second half [against Wolves] we weren’t at our standards, which is normal when we play the amount of games we play as well. But if there is anyone who is responsible, that’s me," he said.

Arteta: I love my players like my kids

Arteta was in relaxed mood as he joked with reporters about how he tries to ease the pressure on his players.

"I write them love letters," he said with a smile. "The way I interact with them, the way I communicate with them and the way I try to support them and make them feel that I'm here, that we are all here. It's not that I love them, we love them.

"Because it's impossible not to. I mean, when you are 10 minutes in that dressing room in and around the building and you interact with them, it is impossible not to believe me. Even if you try hard. I think they will win you. I love them and that's it, like my kids."

Looking ahead, Arteta remains focused on the present and future. "What I’m very interested in is the next chapter, what we are made of and how we write our own destiny from here going forward," he added.

Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz were absent against Wolves through injury but could return against Spurs. "We have to wait until tomorrow, but there is a big possibility that they are available," Arteta confirmed.

Stream the Premier League, Men’s and Women’s FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League and more on TNT Sports and discovery+

Transfers