Mikel Arteta is likely to feel significant frustration with one of his players following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw against Fulham, according to football analyst Paul Merson. The result at Craven Cottage could prove costly for Arsenal’s ambitions in the Premier League title race, as they failed to capitalize on opportunities to secure a win.
The game began with Fulham taking an early lead through Raul Jimenez, who finished with composure to put the home side in front. Arsenal responded in the second half when William Saliba scored with a close-range header, leveling the match and giving the Gunners a foothold in their quest for victory.
Arsenal’s efforts to clinch all three points were thwarted late in the game when VAR overturned a potential winner from Bukayo Saka. The goal was disallowed due to an offside call in the build-up play, with Gabriel Martinelli found to have been at fault for his positioning.
Martinelli’s offside position was evident as the initial cross was delivered, and this error led to the VAR decision that nullified Arsenal’s crucial goal. Reflecting on the incident during a Sky Sports broadcast, Paul Merson criticized Martinelli’s lapse and suggested that Arteta would be equally dissatisfied with the forward’s mistake.
“There’s no reason to be offside there,” Merson stated. “Martinelli has exceptional pace and doesn’t need to take chances like that. He’s more than capable of beating defenders even if they have a head start.” His analysis highlighted how the error was preventable, making the oversight all the more frustrating.
Merson also speculated that Arteta might address the matter directly with Martinelli. “I wouldn’t be surprised if the manager had a word with him afterward. Martinelli’s reaction said it all—he knew he’d made an error. Situations like that require awareness and discipline, which should be second nature at this level,” Merson added.
The draw leaves Arsenal trailing six points behind league leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand that could widen the gap further. This outcome places additional pressure on the Gunners as they aim to maintain their title challenge in an increasingly competitive race.
Although Arsenal’s draw temporarily lifted them to second place in the league, their position remains vulnerable. Chelsea could reclaim the spot with a single point in their upcoming match against Tottenham. For Arteta and his team, this result underscores the importance of greater concentration and sharper decision-making in their pursuit of silverware.
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