Mikel Arteta expressed frustration with Arsenal’s defensive performance in their 2-2 draw with Sporting in the Europa League, stating that the team made “simple” mistakes.
Despite being at the top of the Premier League and aiming for the quarter-finals in Europe, the team has been conceding too many sloppy goals recently.
Arteta acknowledged that avoidable mistakes need to be eliminated, as the team has conceded four times in their last six games. The coach attributed the defensive struggles to a lack of cohesion and a need for better adaptation to opponents.
The team will need to improve their defense to secure a positive result in the return leg against Sporting.

Arteta emphasized the importance of defending well, especially in a competition where one mistake could result in elimination.
He admitted that the team did not defend well enough against Sporting and needs to do better in the future.
Despite some positive aspects of the game, including showing resilience to come back from behind, Arteta believes that the team needs to improve their defense to beat Sporting in the return leg.
Looking ahead, Arsenal will need to address their defensive issues quickly, as they face a busy schedule of fixtures. With the Premier League title race heating up, every game will be crucial, and the team cannot afford to drop points due to defensive errors.
Arteta will need to find a way to balance resting players while maintaining a strong defensive unit.
As Arsenal prepare for their upcoming fixtures, they will be hoping to get back to their consistent and solid defensive performances that have been a hallmark of their season so far.
With the return of some key players from injury, the team will have more options to choose from and should be able to improve their defensive record.
Arsenal will next face Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday.