'We're in a good place' — Arteta remains upbeat despite Arsenal's loss to Villarreal

Mikel Arteta has urged calm following Arsenal’s 3-2 pre-season defeat to Villarreal, stressing that the team remains on the right path.

While disappointed with the result, Arteta highlighted several positives from the performance against the LaLiga side.

Arsenal looked sharp in the early stages at the Emirates, dominating possession and pushing Villarreal back, with new signing Viktor Gyokeres and teenager Ethan Nwaneri both lively.

However, despite the strong start, the Gunners were undone by their defensive vulnerability and lapses in transition.

Nicolas Pepe, on his return to north London, punished indecision to open the scoring for the visitors. Moments later, Etta Eyong doubled Villarreal’s lead after Arsenal again failed to deal with a rebound.

Christian Norgaard’s headed goal gave Arsenal hope before the break, but Arnaut Danjuma’s breakaway finish restored Villarreal’s two-goal advantage.

Martin Odegaard’s composed penalty in the final quarter narrowed the gap again, but Arsenal were unable to find an equaliser. Despite the loss, Arteta remained optimistic, noting, “That pain in the belly about losing a game is necessary... I think we are in a good place.”

Arteta praised his side’s attacking intent, noting improvements in multiple areas despite defensive shortcomings.

The match also offered valuable minutes to all six summer signings, including Gyokeres and Merino, while 15-year-old Max Dowman earned a penalty on debut. Arsenal ended the evening with a penalty shootout, narrowly losing again.

With one more pre-season match against Athletic Club to come, Arteta is confident his team will be ready when they kick off their Premier League season against Manchester United on August 17.