Arteta calls Arsenal ‘most exciting team in Europe’ after Scholes criticism

Mikel Arteta dismissed a suggestion from Paul Scholes that Arsenal would be the most boring team to win the Premier League, saying his side are considered “the most exciting in Europe” as they prepare for the second leg of Tuesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea at the Emirates with a 3-2 advantage.

Scholes had pointed to a lack of goals from Arsenal’s front four and a reliance on set pieces, noting Viktor Gyökeres is the club’s top scorer in the league with six and that Arsenal have scored 17 goals from set pieces, “three more than any other club.” Arteta laughed off the criticism and pointed to different perceptions abroad, saying: “I hear completely the opposite: all around Europe that we are the most exciting team in Europe – the most goals, the most clean sheets.

Maybe I have different sources.” He also joked about being sent names and addresses for those who disagree: “You send me the names, the addresses and the email and maybe we can talk.” The manager emphasised momentum after Arsenal brushed aside Leeds to move six points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, and noted the club became the first team to win all eight of their games in the league phase of the Champions League.

Arsenal last won the League Cup under George Graham in 1993 and have not lost to Chelsea in their past nine meetings.

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