Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe dismissed Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s post-match comments as “irrelevant” following Newcastle’s hard-fought 1-0 win over the Gunners at St. James’ Park.
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This victory marks Arsenal’s third consecutive Premier League game without a win, with Alexander Isak scoring the decisive goal.
In his post-match interview, Arteta appeared to offer a half-hearted compliment, remarking that Newcastle are “really good at what they want to do.”
Arteta repeated the sentiment multiple times, which many interpreted as a backhanded comment highlighting Newcastle’s physical playing style. The Athletic described Arteta’s statement as “a half-compliment delivered like an insult or perhaps the other way around.”
Howe, when asked about Arteta’s comments, brushed them aside, stating, “It’s irrelevant to me what anyone says, really, apart from my team. We just try to do what we do to win games consistently.”
Howe emphasized the consistency and improved performance of his squad, noting that recent matches have showcased a noticeable upturn in form, with Newcastle’s efforts finally being rewarded in their last two outings.
Interestingly, Newcastle secured a similar 1-0 victory over Arsenal exactly one year ago, leading to a heated response from Arteta at the time regarding the refereeing standards.
This season, however, the match’s outcome lacked any controversial goals, though Arteta still highlighted Newcastle’s physical approach.
“They are really good at what they do,” Arteta noted, pointing out Newcastle’s ability to impose their preferred playing style and singling out Joelinton for his physicality.
Arsenal now face the challenge of bouncing back in their upcoming Champions League fixture against Inter Milan on Wednesday, as they seek to regain form and return to winning ways.