Merson Claims Arsenal Star ‘Pulled Wool Over Arteta’s Eyes’ In Aston Villa ‘mistake’

Regarding an error Mikel Arteta made prior to Aston Villa’s Premier League victory at Arsenal on Sunday, Gary Lineker and Paul Merson have to an understanding.

Unai Emery’s team shocked the Gunners at the Emirates, winning 2-0 thanks to goals in the dying minutes from Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey.

Merson: Arteta miscalculated Arsenal squad vs Villa

This is terrible news for Arsenal and Liverpool, who have more difficult schedules than the defending champions, since Manchester City is now the clear favorite to win the Premier League.

Sunday’s shocking outcome also befell Jurgen Klopp’s team, as they lost 1-0 at home against Crystal Palace following an early goal by Eberechi Eze.

With six games left, City is already two points ahead of both Liverpool and Arsenal, and Merson is among many who believe the title fight is done.

Read Also:West Ham Midfielder Discharged From The Hospital After Suffering A Head Injury

Merson has also stated that Arsenal lost against Aston Villa because of Arteta’s lineup selection.

For the Gunners this season, Kai Havertz has been leading the line very well. Declan Rice has advanced up the pitch as a result of Jorginho playing in a No. 6 role.

Leandro Trossard was rightfully started by Arteta on the left wing, but he chose to shift Havertz back into midfield, giving Rice a more advanced position and starting Gabriel Jesus up front.

Prior to the match, Merson criticized Arteta’s starting lineup, saying the Spaniard shouldn’t have made any changes following Villa’s 2-0 victory.

The former Arsenal midfielder told Sky Sports, “I said before the game I didn’t like Arteta’s decision with the team he picked.”

“Play the same team that wins every week and don’t blindly follow your team’s performance against Bayern Munich, which lasts only 25 minutes. Havertz is moved by Jesus when he enters and performs admirably.

“With Havertz and Jorginho playing where they were, they have won nine out of ten games. Today, he had no one if things weren’t going well with the bench. Usually, Jesus and Trossard are the first to appear.