Mikel Arteta acknowledges that Arsenal need a psychological “reset” following their elimination from the FA Cup by Liverpool.
Despite this setback, Liverpool continues to compete on four fronts after reaching the fourth round. Arsenal’s struggle with finishing and the absence of a clinical striker was apparent in their defeat.
Arteta has stated that it is “not realistic” for Arsenal to expect to sign a striker this month, particularly with Gabriel Jesus facing a knee injury and potential time off the field.
Gunners boss Arteta, whose side now have a winter break after losing their last three games, said:
“I think we need to reset. This break is good. It comes at a good time.
“We’re going to see how I feel about them in difficult moments. Hopefully I can see that from other people too. When things are going well they jump on the train. Now things are difficult, let’s see where they stand.”
Arsenal squandered several opportunities, enabling Liverpool to stage a late comeback victory. Arteta indicated that it’s improbable for the team to acquire a striker in January.
“At the moment it does not look realistic,” said Arteta.
“What my job is, and what we have to do is improve our players and try to get better results with the players we have. What I beg from the supporters is that they are behind the team like they have been in difficult moments. Stick behind the ones that we have. They are incredibly good.
“If not then they don’t do what they’ve done today and in Anfield. Stick by them. That’s exactly what they need. Then they feel important and supported. With their attitude, they don’t deserve anything different. That’s my opinion.”
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said:
“I’m super proud. It’s a super difficult draw. In all cup competitions, it is not about being the better team, it is about winning the game.
“A lot of players were not here tonight – a really good football team. But I said before the game. Nobody comes to Arsenal and wins so if you start badly, humans start looking for excuses and pointing to who is not there. Then we are screwed.
“But if you know this, you can avoid it and the boys enjoyed the game in the second half. That is really cool – growing into a game is a pretty special thing to do.”
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