Former Arsenal star Thierry Henry has questioned Mikel Arteta’s current style of play amid a tricky season so far for the side.
It comes as the Gunners take on Manchester City in a clash between two sides who have been in the race for the Premier League title in recent seasons.
There may be something of a different atmosphere surrounding the big tie, given that neither are fully in the picture to lift the trophy in May.
It has brought questions surrounding Arsenal in particular and whether they have let an opportunity slip this season.
Thierry Henry discussed it and questioned Mikel Arteta in particular.
Thierry Henry questions Mikel Arteta style of play at Arsenal
One main criticism that has come of Arsenal this season has been around the style of play and the difficulties in creating chances.
The Gunners have been held to plenty of close draws and defeats, which have often cost them big points in the title race.
While the victories aren’t flowing, the style of play and entertainment are called into question, which Henry has now joined the conversation on.
Speaking on Sky Sports, the Arsenal legend said: “Nil-nil, one-one, 15 minutes to go, sometimes we think more let’s not lose it then going to win it.
“You cannot go to win a title and think about not losing games in big moments.”
He went on to continue by linking it with the rivalry against Man City, adding: “I think, the first title that we lost against Man City, it did hurt a lot of people at the club, especially Mikel.
“You saw that he went in big games in different way. Before it was all fancy, it became more let’s not concede. Odegaard doesn’t run the show anymore.”
It’s a clear problem that has cost the side this year, though more factors have been questioned such as injuries.
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How Arsenal have transformed tactically under Mikel Arteta
Mikel Arteta’s tactical journey at Arsenal has seen him move pragmatically depending on the team at his disposal.
The first real success the manager had was in retreating and focusing on the defence, tightening up at the back.
That changed once again with the addition of Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard adding further attacking strength.
Arsenal opened up, playing some thrilling, attacking football on their way towards a surprise Premier League title charge.
Defeats to Manchester City have proven key over those campaigns though, with the approach changing once again.
Keeping it tight in those key games and being competitive on a physical and technical basis has been the way forward.
While last season it worked, this season has seen fewer positive results and less entertainment as a result.
Whether the side can find that spark again, with results and entertainment to follow, remains to be seen.
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