A former Manchester United star has ignited a debate, suggesting a shift in attitude within Arsenal that could be hindering their progress. He believes the current squad appears to operate with an unspoken expectation of victory in every match, a mindset he argues is fundamentally flawed.
Teddy Sheringham, a key figure in United’s historic 1999 Treble-winning team, recalls a different atmosphere at Old Trafford. Even within a squad brimming with talent, defeat was accepted as a part of the game, not met with the level of scrutiny Arsenal recently faced after a draw.
Sheringham points to the reaction following Arsenal’s stalemate against Nottingham Forest as evidence of this growing entitlement. He suggests the “uproar” that followed demonstrated a lack of respect for Sean Dyche’s team and their ability to compete.
He vividly remembers that even the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson’s sides weren’t immune to dropped points. Losses happened, but they weren’t treated as catastrophic failures, a stark contrast to the current climate surrounding Arsenal’s results.
The core of Sheringham’s argument rests on the unpredictable nature of the Premier League. He emphasizes that every opponent deserves respect, and that success isn’t guaranteed simply by possessing a talented squad.
He explains that teams will inevitably rise to the occasion and deliver strong performances, capitalizing on opportunities against even the most formidable opponents. Dismissing these challenges as unacceptable is, in his view, a dangerous path.
Sheringham recalls a time when a draw against a team like Leicester wouldn’t have sparked such intense criticism. The focus remained on consistent performance and acknowledging the opponent’s contribution to the result, a humility he feels is now lacking.
Ultimately, Sheringham believes Arsenal needs to rediscover a sense of humility and respect for every team they face. Recognizing the potential for any opponent to perform well is crucial, and acknowledging missed chances without resorting to entitlement is key to sustained success.
He stresses that taking chances when they arise is paramount, but even with opportunities, a team must acknowledge that a positive result isn’t always assured, and respect must be given regardless of the outcome.
