Arteta Admits Arsenal Ignored Leverkusen Warning Despite Showing Images

Mikel Arteta revealed Arsenal failed to heed his pre-match warnings about Bayer Leverkusen’s kick-off routines, despite showing the players specific footage of the German side’s tactics before their Champions League clash. (See Arsenal vs Bayer Leverkusen: Head-to-Head Record)

The Gunners fell behind less than a minute into the second half when Robert Andrich headed home unmarked at the back post, following a dangerous move that started immediately from Leverkusen’s kick-off.

Arteta’s frustration was evident as he explained the goal could have been prevented. “These are the details, everybody is so prepared in every action and we knew that they had certain routines because they’ve done it a few days ago in the Bundesliga three times in a row,” he told TNT Sports.

“We showed those images [to the players], but then you have to see it and do it, and we haven’t done it, and we paid the price for it.”

Subs Make the Difference

Arsenal’s response came through their substitutes, with Noni Madueke providing the spark that had been missing. The winger’s persistence eventually earned a penalty in the closing stages, which Kai Havertz converted against his former club.

“He was really good,” Arteta said of Madueke’s impact. “Straightaway, he changed the rhythm, the dynamic, the threat; he had a big impact in the result.”

The manager also praised Havertz for his composure from the penalty spot. “Football has very funny and nice stories, it was really impressive the way he took the penalty, how composed he was, and obviously it was a big goal for us.”

First Half Frustrations

Arsenal had dominated large portions of the first half but failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Gabriel Martinelli struck the crossbar with the game’s biggest chance, a moment Arteta identified as potentially decisive.

“In those moments, if you score, the game changes completely,” the Arsenal boss reflected. “We had a certain dominance, but we didn’t finish enough actions, and that allows certain counter-attacks.”

The draw leaves the Champions League tie perfectly balanced ahead of the return leg at Emirates Stadium. Arsenal must now quickly refocus for Everton’s visit on Saturday before welcoming Leverkusen back to north London just three days later.

Arteta acknowledged the importance of home advantage in determining their European fate. “We will have to use now the home advantage, the tie is fifty-fifty at the moment. There’s a lot to do, and we’re going to need our people to be at our best.”