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The Arsenal boss spoke of his profound disappointment and frustration following his side surrendered a late equaliser versus Sunderland in their stadium. A 94th-minute goal from replacement Brian Brobbey secured a draw for the hosts, who are placed in fourth position.

“It’s not a nice feeling,” Arteta stated. “Frustration and disappointment, since we were aiming for the three points. We had to navigate through a difficult match. We were aware. [They were] very disruptive. We had to deal with circumstances that were clearly difficult to deal with.”

Ex- Gunners youth trainee Ballard had scored first in a opening period that seemingly unsettled the visitors. Questioned about his feelings when the team’s club-record run of eight clean sheets was ended, the manager replied: “A pain in my tummy, since I hate giving up any goals.” His side improved in the second half and took the lead through strikes from Bukayo Saka and Trossard.

Arteta on Sunderland’s Opener

Arteta commented on Sunderland’s opener: “We conceded a goal that was below our level, but following that, the team responded superbly, displayed a lot of personality and courage. Got the first goal, scored the second goal, and we totally dominated the match.

“It’s necessary to depend on protecting the area when they start to commit multiple attackers there. It might come from a direct play, a throw-in, or any situation. We should have defended it better. And today we didn’t manage it, we have conceded a goal.”

Late Drama and Lost Opportunity

Despite Brobbey’s equaliser, the defender had to block a Mikel Merino shot. The manager continued: “In the last minute, we had another massive chance to win, which I think we earned.”

Opposition Manager Praises Squad’s Spirit

Régis Le Bris commended the “character” of his team, whose motto in last season’s successful run in the Championship playoffs was: “Until the final whistle”.

“This demonstrates the team has a very resilient spirit,” stated the coach. “It’s still tough facing a side such as Arsenal, one of the best teams in Europe, so you have to do a masterclass, or else it’s unachievable to get a result.

“In my view the opening period was evenly matched, we tried to defend high when possible, organised a deep block, very tight, narrow, aggressive, and we had the opportunity to possess the ball sometimes.

“The latter period was a bit tougher, since you spend much time defending, and then you have to stay composed in possession, and we possess a very youthful team, really young players lacking extensive know-how in the Premier League, so it’s a good lesson.

“Believe we were just on the edge following the second goal, and Arsenal were dominant, and they were skilled at retaining the ball. But thanks to the crowd’s support, in my opinion the characteristics of our players, and the background we have now, I think it’s very encouraging for this belief, and this confidence, that we can change the dynamic.”