Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has launched a scathing criticism of the club's supporters for their reaction following a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium. The loss has intensified scrutiny on Mikel Arteta's side as their lead at the top of the Premier League table narrows to just four points.
Petit's Frustration with Negative Narrative
Speaking to talkSPORT, Petit expressed his exasperation with the persistent focus on Arsenal's perceived lack of mental strength. He highlighted the booing from fans at full-time as particularly unhelpful, arguing that such negativity undermines the team's title ambitions.
"I've heard what people were saying after the game, I saw what the fans did—they booed the team," Petit stated. "I've been listening to former players on different stations saying the same thing. Mental strength? Are they going to lose the title? It's always the same things again and again."
Title Race Context and Fan Support
Petit emphasised that Arsenal remain in a strong position, leading the table despite recent setbacks. He pointed out that Manchester City and Aston Villa have also experienced inconsistent results, urging fans to maintain belief.
"Arsenal are still first, leading the table. The last five games if you took only those games they are still third in the table. Where are City and Aston Villa? They are far away from them," he said. "So stop the negativity, especially for the Arsenal fans. I want you to support the team until the end. Believe they have the strength and quality to win the title."
Key Moments from the Match
The defeat was marked by several pivotal incidents that contributed to Arsenal's downfall:
- Gabriel Jesus's Struggles: Given a starting role after impressing in midweek, the Brazilian forward failed to make an impact and was substituted in the 58th minute, missing a chance to solidify his place.
- Martin Zubimendi's Error: The usually reliable midfielder gifted United a route back into the game with a misplaced pass that led to Bryan Mbeumo's equaliser before half-time.
- United's Standout Performers: Patrick Dorgu scored a spectacular goal, described by Gary Neville as "the goal of a lifetime," while Matheus Cunha netted a stunning winner late on. Mbeumo also shone, showcasing why his summer signing is considered astute business.
Call for Leadership on the Pitch
Petit also directed criticism at Arsenal's senior players, calling for greater vocal leadership during challenging moments. He singled out Declan Rice, William Saliba, and Gabriel Magalhães, urging them to demonstrate champion mentality.
"I expect more from the leaders. I love Declan Rice but you need to be more vocal on the pitch. You need to show something that takes your teammates by the neck. Saliba and Gabriel as well. If you want to become champions, act like champions on the pitch," Petit asserted.
He concluded with a warning to fans, noting that this was Arsenal's first home defeat of the season and that such reactions could harm team morale. "They look nervous sometimes but this is the first time they lost a game at home. I'm surprised people are always pointing at Arsenal for the same reasons and it has been like this for three seasons. What I've seen from the fans after the game is typical of what should not happen. Be careful."
The result leaves Arteta with tactical decisions to make ahead of Arsenal's next fixture, as the title race enters a critical phase with mounting pressure on all contenders.
