Why Arsenal lost Premier League title – Micah Richards

Mikel Arteta and Micah Richards

Published By: Taiwo Okanlawon

Former England defender, Micah Richards, has claimed that one mistake from Mikel Arteta cost Arsenal the Premier League title this season.

The Gunners finished just two points behind champions Manchester City this time around.

Of their 38 league fixtures, Arteta’s men won 28, drew five, and lost five.

However, Richards believes Arteta didn’t get his tactics right when they hosted Aston Villa in April.

Arsenal lost the game 2-0 at the Emirates, with Leon Bailey and Ollie Watkins scoring late goals.

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Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Richards said: “I just go back to that Villa game, Arsenal v Villa at home.

“Arteta chose to go with Havertz in the midfield area instead of the false nine which has worked so well for them. Could’ve gone with a Jorginho or Partey.

“Emery, on the day, tactically got it spot on. So, yeah, disappointed.”