In the world of football, pressure is a constant companion. For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, this season could be a defining moment in his career. Wayne Rooney, former England and Manchester United forward, has suggested that it might be a case of 'now or never' for Arteta.
Rooney believes that the expectations are high for the Arsenal manager this season. He will be "expected" to win silverware to prove his worth and secure his position at the helm of one of England's most prestigious clubs.
Arsenal recently suffered a 1-0 defeat against Liverpool, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring an impressive free-kick. This loss has further intensified the scrutiny on Arteta's management style and tactics. When asked on The Wayne Rooney Show if he thought it was now or never for Arsenal, Rooney said: "Maybe not for Arsenal, but I think for Arteta possibly."
Wayne Rooney, Premier League legend, said:
"I think they've allowed him to bring a lot of players in, spend a lot of money. I imagine the board and certainly the fans will be expecting him to win the league. So I think it could be a big year for him."
Liverpool remain favourites
Despite their recent victory over Arsenal, Rooney still considers Liverpool as favourites to win the Premier League trophy this season. Their consistent performance and strong squad depth make them formidable contenders in any competition they participate in.
Wayne Rooney added:
"[Liverpool] are a very good team," Rooney said. "They've got the know-how and the knowledge of winning the league twice over the last few years. It's a sign of a good team when you're winning games."
However, he also pointed out that there is room for improvement within other teams like Arsenal who should show more bravery during matches against top-tier teams like Liverpool.
Call for bravery
Rooney added that he thought Arsenal should have shown more courage at Anfield rather than setting up games "to not lose them". This critique suggests that adopting a more aggressive strategy might yield better results than playing defensively with an aim just to avoid defeat.
Wayne Rooney added:
"If they were just a little bit braver and went and actually took the game a bit more to Liverpool, I think they can go and win that. I think that's a real chance missed for Arsenal today. But then I think Liverpool have done what champions do - they stayed in the game."
This advice may serve as food-for-thought not only for Mikel Artera but also other managers who find themselves under similar pressure to deliver results. The stakes are high for Mikel Arteta this season. The expectation of winning silverware and the recent defeat against Liverpool have put him under immense pressure. However, with a change in tactics and a more courageous approach to games, there might still be hope for Arsenal's success under Arteta's leadership. Only time will tell if this season is indeed 'now or never' for him.
