Hollywood superstar defends Mikel Arteta against dark arts claim, but points out problem holding Arsenal back

Mikel Arteta has been accused of employing the “dark arts” this season.

Opposition teams have been frustrated with Arsenal for delays in set pieces and goal kicks, as well as other efforts to alleviate games they are winning.

Arteta was heavily criticized for the way he organized his team during a clash with rivals chasing the Premier League title. city ​​of manchester in September.

Leandro Trossard was sent off in the first half and the north London team came out after the break looking to protect their 2-1 lead.

Several Arsenal stars fell to the ground and asked for treatment during the second half, including David Raya, Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel Martinelli and Jurrien Timber was later accused of deliberately disrupting the game.

If they were trying to waste time, their efforts were in vain as City equalized in the 98th minute to ensure the points were shared thanks to John Stones.

After the match, the defender went on to suggest that Arsenal had used “the dark arts” for some years.

That is a claim that Arteta has rejected, arguing that his players have not faked injuries or wasted time.

Still, there's no doubt his tactics have caused a stir at times this season, but according to one Hollywood star, that's not a bad thing.

Will Poulter, who has starred in films such as The Maze Runner, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Midsommar, as well as the hit TV show The Bear, is a huge Arsenal fan.

He recently appeared on the US Overlap podcast to discuss the club's efforts so far this season.

“I don't agree with people criticizing us for being boring, when we've had to emphasize a defensive approach,” Poulter said.

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“For 10 years I heard people say that Arsenal were soft, that we needed to embrace the dark arts and that we didn't have that brave edge, that we didn't know when to sit down.”

While the actor clearly believes defensive tactics have been beneficial for the club, he shared frustration that the Gunners have not been able to capitalize on rivals City's decline this season, with Liverpool He now ranks first in the league.

“The season feels a little different in regards to how many points teams can be expected to lose,” he continued.

“City lose four games in a row, that surprises me as much as it delights me, but I think we are going to see teams lose points throughout the season.

“It bothers me that we haven't capitalized. Historically, there are times when you want Arsenal to go for the jugular with someone who has dropped points, and we haven't done that.”

“Great teams, that win back-to-back championships, do that. They handle the pressure of that.

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“I just hope things can improve later in the season.”