What did Mikel Arteta say about Arsenal's defense against Wolves?

Mikel Arteta described Arsenal's defensive performance as "unacceptable," highlighting "passive" play and "horrible defensive habits."

How did Arsenal secure their win against Wolves?

Arsenal won 2-1 against Wolves, with both goals being own goals, including a late winner after Wolves had equalized.

Did any Arsenal players get injured in the match against Wolves?

Yes, Ben White limped off with a hamstring injury, and William Saliba played 90 minutes despite fitness concerns.

Home / Sports / Arteta Slams Arsenal's "Unacceptable" Defensive Lapses

Arteta Slams Arsenal's "Unacceptable" Defensive Lapses

14 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Arteta decried Arsenal's "horrible defensive habits" despite a late win.
Arsenal's lead at the top is now five points after a tough match.
Ben White sustained a hamstring injury, highlighting squad depth issues.

Arteta Slams Arsenal's "Unacceptable" Defensive Lapses

Mikel Arteta did not mince words following Arsenal's narrow 2-1 victory over Wolves, criticizing his team's late performance as "unacceptable." He specifically called out "horrible defensive habits" and a "passive" approach that allowed the league's bottom club to snatch an equalizer in the 90th minute. Despite the eventual win, secured by a second Wolves own goal, Arteta focused on the defensive lapses rather than his side's resilience.

The Arsenal manager was particularly dismayed by a two-to-three-minute period where his team displayed a lack of defensive intensity, despite Wolves committing players forward. Arteta stressed that the activity within their defensive block needed to be far more robust. He also lamented missed chances in the first half, including a significant opportunity for Gabriel Martinelli, and a general struggle to create clear-cut chances in dangerous areas.