Arteta admits Arsenal had point to prove after ‘big moment in season’ with win at Sporting

Mikel Arteta acknowledged that Arsenal had a point to prove against Sporting after losing their last two matches and believes that Kai Havertz’s late winner could prove to be a “big moment” in their season.

Arsenal had David Raya to thank for making three superb saves that kept the scores level before Havertz came off the bench to seal a priceless away victory. It was a huge relief for Arteta, who had urged his players to rediscover their identity after they suffered back-to-back defeats for the first time this season against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final and Championship side Southampton in the FA Cup.

While Arsenal were far from their fluent best against opponents who are unbeaten in their past 23 league matches, their manager was delighted with the spirit they showed to come away with a victory.

“I’m extremely happy – it was a big night, a big moment in the season,” said Arteta, who celebrated Havertz’s strike by charging out of his technical area in celebration. “Especially where we’re coming from. I think we had a point to prove. Yesterday I talked about identity and the things that I wanted to see on that pitch. It certainly happened that there was a shift there, and then they were a big opponent. It’s very tricky, very difficult to play. That’s the reason why they won 17 times in a row here. They haven’t lost for a long time. We really had to earn it.”

Asked whether such a victory was a timely boost for a dressing room that has looked low on confidence in recent weeks, Arteta added: “The demand from August [onwards] is win and win and win and win; and if you don’t win, it’s a disaster, and it’s not enough if you don’t win four trophies. So that’s fine, but they need some perspective, especially from my side, a big reminder of what we are as a team and the things that have brought us where we are. And take it, live the present, do your best and let’s see what happens.”

Raya produced a brilliant fingertip save early on to deny Maxi Araújo before keeping out two efforts from Geny Catamo before Havertz’s clincher. “He’s extraordinary, magnificent, incredible,” was Arteta’s assessment of the goalkeeper’s importance, while Havertz went even further.

“Unbelievable,” he said. “I think he’s still underestimated in the world of football but for me, the last two seasons, the best keeper in the world. He’s outstanding, he’s saved us so many times and we’re very glad to have him.”