Arsenal maintained their unbeaten run in the Champions League, securing a 2-1 victory over Slavia Prague at the Fortuna Arena, despite a late goal from Wiktor Nowak.
Noni Madueke opened the scoring in the ninth minute, with Viktor Gyokeres doubling the lead before half-time. Mikel Arteta made six changes to the side that beat Liverpool on Sunday, handing Gyokeres a rare start. The Swedish international marked his inclusion by registering both a goal and an assist within the opening 45 minutes.
Tactical approach draws criticism from McManaman
Former England international Steve McManaman expressed sympathy for the club’s forwards, citing the team’s pragmatic tactical setup under Arteta. McManaman argued that the defensive priority of the system leaves players like Gyokeres and Kai Havertz isolated and prone to unfair scrutiny.
“I do feel sorry for Arsenal forwards sometimes because they’re not an entertaining team, they’re not like a Barcelona,” McManaman said, as quoted by Metro. “They defend very deep, they defend as a whole and it’s a long way to get to the other end of the pitch to score goals.”
McManaman noted that while the team prioritises defensive solidity, it creates a difficult environment for attacking players. He observed that during the second half in Prague, as the game became more stretched, Gyokeres appeared “left alone a lot” when the team failed to operate as a compact unit.
Arsenal look toward Hull City fixture
Following the European excursion, Arsenal shifts focus to domestic competition with a Saturday match against Hull City. The team remains in pursuit of the Premier League title.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Viktor Gyokeres perform against Slavia Prague?
Gyokeres provided an assist for Noni Madueke’s opening goal in the ninth minute and scored his own goal just before half-time.
What is Steve McManaman’s view on Arsenal’s tactics?
McManaman believes the team’s deep defensive structure makes it difficult for strikers to shine, leading to criticism of forwards for a lack of free-flowing attacking play.
When is Arsenal’s next match?
Arsenal hosts Hull City this Saturday in a Premier League fixture.
More on Slavia Prague
Arsenal survive a late scare to claim a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Slavia Prague in the UEFA Champions League.#PTVSports #UCL #Arsenal #SlaviaPrague pic.twitter.com/802XxIBQjy
Champions League highlights: Slavia Prague 1-2 Arsenal Viktor Gyokeres grasped his opportunity as Arsenal beat Slavia Prague 2-1 in the Champions League. pic.twitter.com/7rAmLB4fzW
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