Furious William Saliba Blasts Mikel Arteta Over Teammate’s Poor Performance After Newcastle Defeat
In an explosive press conference following Arsenal’s disappointing 2-1 loss to Newcastle, defender William Saliba voiced his frustration with manager Mikel Arteta and one of his teammates, taking aim at the decision to start the player who he believes was responsible for costing the team vital points.
“They say we’re already out of the title race, I don’t blame them. I blame Arteta for starting him again the other day,” Saliba said, visibly upset. The French centre-back did not hold back as he lambasted the team’s tactics, focusing particularly on one £90,000-per-week player whose performance he believes directly contributed to Arsenal’s failure to secure a crucial three points.
Though Saliba did not name the player explicitly, it’s understood that he was referring to one of the more controversial figures in the squad. In the aftermath of the game, it was evident that Saliba’s frustration boiled over into a public critique, a rare moment of candor for the normally composed defender.
“It’s always the same,” Saliba continued. “We work so hard, we give everything for the team, but when things like this happen, it’s hard to stay quiet. It was a game we should’ve won. We dominated large parts of it, but then… we lose because of individual mistakes. And when it happens repeatedly, it’s difficult.”
The defender’s words reflect a growing sense of frustration in the Arsenal camp, with the team now slipping further down the Premier League table. Saliba’s comments also highlight a simmering tension between the players and Arteta, whose tactical decisions have come under scrutiny after this recent setback.
Saliba’s criticism is also a stark reminder of the high expectations within the squad. After finishing second last season, Arsenal’s title hopes were reignited, but a series of underwhelming results, especially following key defensive errors, has seen the Gunners fall out of the race. The loss to Newcastle, in particular, was seen as a pivotal moment, with Saliba’s comments reflecting the growing anxiety within the team regarding their long-term ambitions this season.
Arteta, when asked about Saliba’s remarks, appeared reluctant to engage with the criticism, instead emphasizing that the team needed to move forward and focus on the next challenge. However, it’s clear that the internal dynamics at the club are becoming increasingly strained, with key players like Saliba unwilling to overlook what they see as crucial tactical mistakes.
As Arsenal prepare for their next match, Saliba’s words will likely resonate within the locker room. Whether his open frustration with Arteta and his teammate will spark a positive reaction from the squad or add to the growing tension remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the road to reclaiming a spot at the top of the Premier League will require far more than just individual performances; it will demand unity and tactical clarity from both Arteta and his players.