Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has admitted his side fell short during their 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United.
The result brought a frustrating end to a tough night at the Emirates Stadium for the Premier League leaders.
Arsenal saw their seven-point lead at the top of the table reduced to four after the loss. The Gunners struggled to find control as the game wore on, despite making a positive start.
Speaking after the match, Odegaard did not hide his disappointment with the overall showing. The Norwegian midfielder accepted responsibility and stressed the need for unity within the squad.
Odegaard reflects on below-par showing
Speaking to Sky Sports, Odegaard was clear in his assessment of the team’s performance.
He said: “It wasn’t good enough from us. We need some time to analyse it now but it was not good enough, the performance.
“We should have done better but now is the time to stick together even more and keep working, be together, and bounce back.”
Odegaard explained that Arsenal started the game in a solid manner and looked in control early on.
He felt his side were the stronger team in the first half and deserved their opening goal. However, he admitted mistakes allowed Manchester United back into the contest.
He added: “In the first half, we were the better team, scored the goal and had control of the game but we had a lot of giveaways in the game that created dangerous moments and in the second half the game changed a little bit”
The Arsenal captain pointed out that those errors shifted the balance of the match. He noted that the visitors grew in confidence as the game progressed.
Arsenal urged to stay united and respond
Odegaard highlighted Manchester United’s strength when given space and momentum during the second half. He explained that key battles across the pitch played a major role in the change of tempo.
Despite the setback, Arsenal briefly fought back into the game with the equaliser. Odegaard felt that moment offered hope of a positive finish for the home side.
He further said: “We managed to get the 2-2 and could have pushed on to win it but they scored straightaway. Overall, not good enough from us.
“But time to stick together, work even harder, push each other even more and bounce back.”
The midfielder also reminded fans and teammates of the demands of the Premier League. He stressed the importance of mental strength during difficult moments in the season.
Arsenal will look to respond in their next outing when they face Kairat Almaty in the Champions League.
After that, the Gunners travel to Elland Road for a crucial league clash against Leeds United.
