The changes Mikel Arteta is making – and why all is not lost for Arsenal

After a game at Manchester City that demanded everything, Mikel Arteta has given his Arsenal players two days off. It could be said that it is needed now more than ever to afford them some breathing space , but this was always the plan. What’s more, the mood in the Arsenal dressing room isn’t as devastated as perception would have it.

A tone was set by Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard afterwards. They very much feel “this isn’t done”. Somewhat ironically, there was actually encouragement from the performance in the 2-1 defeat , because it was superior to almost all of Arsenal’s wins in 2026.

The players don’t feel they should have lost the game. Mikel Arteta will try to pick his Arsenal side up after the frustration of defeat to title rivals Man City (PA) Don’t just follow football – understand it. Get Miguel’s insights straight to your inbox Arteta and his staff might well say that’s what happens when you have some of your best attackers back – and there’s still Bukayo Saka to return.

That’s why this very mood is now fascinating, as the long-time leaders attempt to rally for the run-in. It’s like the worst has happened , but not in the worst way. They didn’t crumble, or collapse.