In the first match since the defeat in the Carabao Cup final, Mikel Arteta's team again showed a lackluster performance, allowing Southampton to seize the opportunity and score thanks to Ross Stewart and reserve player Shea Charles.
The 2-1 victory helped Southampton secure a place in the FA Cup semi-finals. Meanwhile, for Arsenal this is their 2nd consecutive defeat in the cup tournament. Previously, they suffered a 0-2 defeat to Man City in the Carabao Cup final.
Arsenal's ambition to win the quadruple has vanished into thin air. Their remaining goal is to focus on the Premier League – where they are leading – and the UEFA Champions League, the tournament they will face Sporting CP in the quarterfinals.
After the match, Arteta said: "I love my players, what they have done in the past nine months. I will not criticize them for the defeat here. What they have experienced physically, some people should not be here today. I will protect them more than ever.
If someone has to take responsibility, it's me. We are having the best period ahead. Usually, in a season there are only two or three moments like this, this is the first moment with such difficulty. Stand up and prove yourself.
There is no reason to excuse the absence of players or players with problems. Look at yourself, accept the situation, resist and move forward with clarity.
Arteta affirmed that Southampton's direct play did not surprise him, but the Arsenal coach said he was confused by the fact that his defenders could not deal with the long passes of the team from the Championship.
Ben White misjudged the flight direction of the cross leading to Southampton's opening goal, although he was not the only one to make such a mistake, but his mistake caused serious consequences.
According to English football experts, one of the things Arteta is most concerned about with Arsenal is the increasing personal errors of the players, especially in the late season. According to Opta, Arsenal have conceded 8 goals from personal mistakes in the last 23 matches.
