Former Manchester United defender and prominent Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has launched a fierce critique of Arsenal's performance following their Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium. Neville did not mince his words as he analysed the moment Bryan Mbeumo equalised for Manchester United, handing the Gunners what he described as their "biggest" gift of the match.
Neville's Blunt Assessment of Arsenal's Collapse
Speaking live on Sky Sports commentary during the match, Neville expressed his astonishment at how Arsenal managed the game after taking an early lead. The Gunners had gone 1-0 up in the 29th minute through a Lisandro Martinez own goal, putting them in a commanding position at home. However, less than ten minutes later, Manchester United were level when Bryan Mbeumo calmly slotted the ball past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
"Terrible" Game Management Since Going Ahead
Neville was particularly scathing about what he perceived as Arsenal's complete loss of control after establishing their advantage. "Well you have to say Arsenal's management and control of the game since going one up has been terrible!" Neville declared emphatically during his commentary. "They've really gifted United two or three moments and that one is the biggest gift."
The former England international expanded on his criticism, highlighting individual moments that contributed to Arsenal's downfall. He questioned the decision-making of experienced players, specifically mentioning midfielder Martin Zubimendi. "I mean Zubimendi what is he doing, someone of his experience," Neville pondered aloud, suggesting that Arsenal's defensive organisation had completely unravelled at a crucial moment.
Praise for Mbeumo's Composure
While critical of Arsenal's performance, Neville did acknowledge the quality of Manchester United's equalising goal and the composure shown by goalscorer Bryan Mbeumo. "It's just a matter of whether Mbeumo can keep his composure, can he go round a fantastic goalkeeper in David Raya... but Mbeumo is so cool," Neville observed. "You can't say it's not been coming."
This assessment suggests Neville believed Arsenal's concession was inevitable given their performance after taking the lead, rather than being solely down to Manchester United's attacking quality. The pundit's comments highlight what he perceives as a recurring issue for Mikel Arteta's side when trying to protect advantages in important matches.
Neville's analysis will undoubtedly fuel further discussion about Arsenal's ability to manage games effectively when in winning positions, particularly against traditional rivals like Manchester United. His commentary adds to the growing scrutiny on Arsenal's performances in crucial moments this season.
