Manager Arteta: 'Arsenal sensed something'

Manager Mikel Arteta shared his thoughts following Arsenal's narrow 1-0 victory over Newcastle United, a result that returned the Gunners to the top of the Premier League.

This was yet another match where Arsenal won by just a single goal margin. However, Arteta certainly could not be fully satisfied seeing Kai Havertz and Eberechi Eze both leave the pitch due to fitness issues. Additionally, Newcastle also missed two golden opportunities that could have changed the course of the game.

Eze was the one who scored the only goal with a classy finish, securing the crucial three points that temporarily put Arsenal three points ahead of Manchester City, despite the rival still having one match left to play.

Speaking after the match, Arteta celebrated emotionally with a fist pump and a shout of "Vamos," before commenting on the game's events: "My feeling now is much better. We understand what is at stake. The margins are very slim. We started very well, scored a beautiful goal, and the players showed a lot of courage."

He also mentioned a controversial incident: "That was a red card. The ball was closer to the striker. I was quite surprised because a week ago, Kai Havertz had a similar chance and was fouled. Hopefully things will change."

The Spanish coach emphasized the team's spirit: "We can miss chances, but how the team reacts immediately afterward is astonishing. When something doesn't go your way, you must find another way to win."

Arteta also spoke about the team's psychological turning point: "It was a huge reset. I clearly sensed the energy in the dressing room in Manchester after the match. Something has changed. This is the first game. We did what needed to be done."

Regarding the condition of Havertz and Eze, he stated: "Both had to leave the pitch. I think it's just minor issues. We don't know the specifics yet, perhaps more will be known tomorrow."