Arsenal’s leaders finally speak out on being called ‘bottlers’

Edu Gaspar, Arsenal’s sporting director, has spoken out about the club’s successful season and why they shouldn’t be called “bottlers” despite losing out on the Premier League title to Manchester City.

Arsenal had been in a fierce title race with Manchester City throughout the 2022/23 season, but a defeat against Nottingham Forest in their 37th game week saw them lose the trophy to The Citizens. Despite this setback, Edu believes that Arsenal should not be labeled as “bottlers” and that they have made significant progress this season.

Edu stated as per ESPN Brazil, “Saying that Arsenal ‘bottled’ is a word I wouldn’t use, we created our own frustration. Nobody expected us to fight for the title. Being frustrated for not having won the title is a change of mentality. In the past, we celebrated fourth place, third [place]. Today, we are frustrated with second [place].”

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 01: Arsenal Technical Director Edu and Head Coach Mikel Arteta celebrate after the FA Cup Final match between Arsenal and Chelsea at Wembley Stadium on August 01, 2020 in London, England. Football Stadiums around Europe remain empty due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in all fixtures being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

This statement highlights how far Arsenal has come under Mikel Arteta’s leadership. The club has shifted its focus from just qualifying for Champions League football to challenging for major trophies. This change in mentality is evident in their performances on the pitch.

Arsenal has been one of the most consistent teams in the Premier League this season. They have led the league table for 10 months and have only lost six league games this season. Their attacking prowess has been impressive with Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka leading the line.

However, it was their defensive solidity that impressed many pundits and fans alike. The partnership of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba at center-back proved to be one of the best in the league. They conceded only 43 goals all season – third only to Manchester City and Newcastle United.

In conclusion, Arsenal has made significant progress this season under Mikel Arteta’s leadership. They have shifted their focus from just qualifying for Champions League football to challenging for major trophies. While they may have missed out on the Premier League title, they should not be labeled as “bottlers.” Instead, they should be praised for their consistency and progress this season.