Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou didn’t hold back after his team’s disappointing 2-1 defeat to Arsenal on Wednesday night.
The loss marked Spurs’ 11th Premier League defeat this season, leaving the North London side floundering in 13th place.
Tottenham initially took the lead through a deflected strike by Son Heung-min, but Arsenal quickly turned the game around.
The Gunners equalized just before halftime when Dominic Solanke’s unfortunate own goal diverted a Gabriel header into the Spurs net. Moments later, Leandro Trossard scored what proved to be the winner, sending Arsenal into the break ahead.
Postecoglou responded with bold substitutions at halftime, introducing James Maddison and Brennan Johnson to add attacking flair. While Spurs showed some improvement in the second half, they failed to trouble Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, leaving their manager visibly frustrated.
“Nowhere near good enough, especially in the first half,” Postecoglou told TNT Sports. “We were too passive and let Arsenal dictate the game. Second half was slightly better, but it’s far from the standard we expect. It’s unacceptable.”
The Australian manager took responsibility for the lackluster performance, emphasizing the need to address his team’s mentality. “It’s on me to prepare the players better. Too many games have slipped away from us this season, and it needs to stop,” he added.
Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was elated with his side’s commanding performance. The win moved the Gunners within four points of league leaders Liverpool.
“Outstanding from the first minute,” Arteta said. “We played with purpose and created an incredible atmosphere. It’s always special to make our fans proud, and the players’ attitude today was phenomenal.”
With a crucial trip to Everton looming, Postecoglou is determined to turn things around. “No choice but to go back to work. These losses hurt, but we must prepare for a tough game this weekend. Giving up isn’t an option,” he declared.
As the North London derby underscored Arsenal’s title aspirations, Tottenham must find a way to halt their slide and reignite their faltering campaign.