Unbelievable that you let that match slip away, says Arsenal manager Arteta after FA Cup elimination

London, Jan 13 (NationPress) Arsenal’s FA Cup campaign reached a disappointing conclusion as they faced a penalty shootout (3-5) defeat against Manchester United in the third round at Old Trafford. The Gunners’ situation deteriorated further when star forward Gabriel Jesus was taken off on a stretcher due to a knee injury in the 40th minute after colliding with United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Arsenal had significant control over the match against Manchester United, demonstrating better ball possession and generating numerous scoring opportunities. However, United’s goalkeeper Altay Bayindir made a series of impressive saves, thwarting the Gunners’ attempts to score. Despite their control, Arsenal only managed to convert once, highlighting their struggles with finishing.

“Unbelievable that you let that match slip away, that’s really what it comes down to,” he remarked after the game. “The dominance, the superiority over the opponent, and all we did to try to secure the win… we clearly didn’t achieve what we deserved.”

Arteta expressed frustration over his team’s failure to seize their chances. “There’s a part that involves putting the ball in the net, but we only succeeded once,” he continued. “With the number of opportunities, chances, and penalties we had—we didn’t convert them.”

Despite the disappointment, Arteta commended his players for their hard work and spirit. “We leave feeling extremely sad, but I cannot be prouder of my players—the team, the individuals, collectively—what they achieved on Wednesday against two top teams. It’s remarkable. Yet, we haven’t been rewarded, and that’s the frustrating part.”

Jesus, a key player in Arsenal’s offense, seemed to be in significant discomfort as he held his knee before being escorted off. Addressing the media after the match, Arteta acknowledged the troubling nature of the situation.

“A significant concern, that’s how I feel,” Arteta stated post-match. “He had to leave on a stretcher, clearly in pain, touching his knee. It doesn’t look promising.”

When questioned about whether the injury affected the same knee that troubled Jesus last season, Arteta clarified: “No, I believe it’s the other one. The concerning aspect is the sensation he had when he had to come off and the pain he experienced.”

The severity of the injury is still uncertain, but Jesus is expected to have tests on Monday to evaluate the damage. This situation arises at a crucial time for Arsenal, who are set to face their fierce rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, in the much-anticipated north London derby next week.

The defeat marked a disappointing end to Arsenal’s FA Cup run, but Arteta remains optimistic about the positives, especially the performances his team displayed against top-tier opponents.