Arsenal Boss Makes His Feelings Clear in ‘10-words Statement’ Fans Left Speechless by Mikel Arteta Post-Match Interview After 0–0 Draw at City Ground

Arsenal Boss Makes His Feelings Clear in 10 Words Statement as Fans Left Speechless by Mikel Arteta Post Match Interview After 0 0 Draw at the City Ground
Mikel Arteta did not hide his frustration after Arsenal were held to a goalless draw at the City Ground, delivering a short but explosive post match message that immediately dominated headlines and ignited fierce debate among fans and pundits alike.
The Gunners arrived in Nottingham knowing every point matters in a tight Premier League title race, but they were forced to settle for a frustrating 0 0 draw against a stubborn Forest side. Despite dominating possession and creating the clearer chances, Arsenal were left feeling aggrieved after a key second half incident failed to result in a penalty.
It was that moment which defined the post match narrative.
Speaking moments after the final whistle, Arteta was visibly composed but unmistakably unhappy. Asked about the referee’s performance, the Arsenal boss paused briefly before delivering a blunt and carefully chosen message.
His exact 10 words statement was
We deserved a penalty tonight the decision changed everything for us

Those words instantly spread across social media, with supporters dissecting every syllable and debating whether Arsenal had been denied a decisive moment that could have altered the course of the match.

On the pitch, Arsenal controlled large spells of the contest, patiently probing and pressing Forest deep into their own half. Several promising moves were halted by last ditch defending, while a controversial penalty shout late in the second half left players surrounding the referee in disbelief.
Arteta’s reaction on the touchline at the time told its own story. Arms raised, expression incredulous, he appeared convinced the foul was clear. When the decision was waved away and play continued, frustration rippled through the Arsenal bench and travelling supporters.
Arsenal Fans Reactions online
Fans were quick to rally behind their manager.
@GoonerView wrote;“That is ten words of truth. We have seen this too many times already this season.”
@NorthLondonPulse added;“If that happens at the other end it is given. Simple as that.”
Forest meanwhile defended doggedly and will feel they earned a valuable point, but the spotlight remained firmly on the officiating. Replays of the incident were replayed endlessly online, with opinion split between those who felt contact was minimal and those who believed Arsenal were denied a clear spot kick.
Former players and analysts also weighed in, further fuelling the discussion. Some praised Arteta for keeping his message short and focused, while others questioned whether officials are under growing pressure in high stakes matches.
@ArtetaEra commented;“He did not rant. He did not shout. He just stated the fact.”
Despite the controversy, Arteta also acknowledged his team’s shortcomings on the night. Arsenal’s final ball lacked sharpness at times and Forest’s compact shape made it difficult to create clear cut opportunities. Still, the sense of injustice lingered heavily.
Inside the Arsenal dressing room, sources suggested players felt the moment could have unlocked the game. A goal would likely have forced Forest to open up, changing the rhythm entirely.
@HighburySoulsummed up the mood
“It feels like two points dropped and not because of our performance.”
The City Ground atmosphere added to the tension, with home fans roaring every defensive action and jeering Arsenal appeals. For the Gunners, it was another reminder of how fine margins can be in a long title race.
Arteta’s 10 word statement may now attract attention from officials and the league, but it also resonated strongly with the Arsenal fanbase. Many saw it as a manager protecting his players and demanding consistency rather than seeking excuses.
As Arsenal move on to their next fixture, the draw could yet prove costly. Whether the penalty decision will be revisited or quietly fade away remains to be seen. What is certain is that Arteta’s carefully chosen words ensured the debate will not disappear quickly.
For Arsenal supporters, the scoreline read 0 0. But in their minds, one decision may have changed everything.





