It is unacceptable for Arsenal players to look tired… their arms don’t ache from lifting trophies, slams former star
WILLIAM GALLAS has called out Arsenal’s “tired” stars – and demanded they raise their energy levels for a title push.
The former Gunners defender won two Premier League titles during his time with Chelsea.
Mikel Arteta’s side have faltered in recent matches after a promising start to the campaign.
Arsenal have lost two of their last three top-flight games, dropping off the pace in the title race.
They go into this weekend’s fixtures seven points behind league leaders Liverpool.
Arteta recently complained his team looked “tired” during a Champions League game with Shakhtar Donetsk.
But Gallas – who played for the Gunners between 2006 and 2010 – doesn’t buy the excuse.
Gallas told Prime Casino: “Arsenal has won absolutely nothing! Nothing. Why are they tired?
“Their arms don’t ache from lifting trophies. Explain to me why they are tired.
“Liverpool, they don’t look tired, they look like they’re ready to fight for the title.”
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Arsenal led twice in a recent 2-2 draw with the league leaders, conceding a late Mo Salah equaliser after dropping deeper into their own half.
And Gallas believes the team’s only chance of winning a first title since 2003 is to go on the front foot.
He continued: “What Arsenal produced last season, and why everybody was happy, was that they had that confidence, they were not scared of anyone.
“I think they have to become fearless again this season to reproduce their best football.
“You can’t blame the lack of rhythm and control on the absence of Odegaard.
Arsenal player ratings v Inter Milan
TOOTHLESS Arsenal were beaten by a superb Italian job in Milan as they lost 1-0 thanks to a controversial penalty.
Here’s how the Gunners stars were rated by SunSport’s Tony Robertson.
David Raya – 6
Unfortunate with the penalty on an otherwise quiet night. Passing was below par with on three out of nine long passes finding their mark.
Ben White – 7
Dependable as ever at right back. Can’t be blamed for the defeat from a defensive standpoint.
William Saliba – 7
Marshalled defence well and produced some strong passes. Three clearances and six duels won said everything about his performance.
Gabriel Magalhaes – 7
Had a slightly better time in duels than Saliba but was worse on the ball.
Jurrien Timber – 7
Had a good rapport with Martinelli down the left flank. Dependable but undone by the controversial penalty call.
Mikel Merino – 5
Difficult to see what he brings to the midfield at the moment. Clearly Arteta likes his height and strength, but not on the same wavelength as team-mates tonight. Unlucky to give away the penalty.
Thomas Partey – 6
Should have been given more licence to roam forward in the second half. But didn’t look like he had the legs to do that job.
Bukayo Saka – 6
Captain for the night with Odegaard only fit for the bench. Saka was always a threat, but all too often or not chose the wrong option to go inside or out.
Gabriel Martinelli – 7
Flashes of brilliance and a thorn throughout the clash. Created four chances but team-mates were unable to help him out.
Kai Havertz – 6
Couple of flashes of brilliance, including a beautiful curled effort at goal that forced Sommer to punch clear, but needed to be a stronger force up top. Went off with a bloody head in injury time.
Leandro Trossard – 6
Buzzed around and had threatening moments. But just didn’t get the ball enough in dangerous positions.
“You can’t call yourself a contender for the Premier League title if you can’t play your football when one player is missing.”
“Arsenal have an amazing opportunity to win the title this season.
“Manchester City are not the same team as previous Pep teams from the last few season. Arsenal need to take advantage of that.
“Don’t squander the opportunity that you’ve worked so tirelessly over the last two years for.”