Arteta Calls on Arsenal Players to 'Love Me After I Draw and I Lose'

The Premier League leaders have won just two of their last seven matches.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called on his players to support him even when the team is not winning, not just when they are victorious. The Gunners have drawn their last two Premier League matches and have won just two of their last seven league games, leading Arteta to urge his players to 'love me when I draw and when I lose' rather than only when the team is winning.

Why it matters

Arsenal are currently top of the Premier League table, but their recent form has seen their lead at the top cut. Arteta's comments suggest he is trying to maintain team morale and unity during a challenging period, as the Gunners look to hold off the chasing pack, including Manchester City.

The details

After the 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers, frustrations boiled over, with Gabriel Jesus pushing an opposing player. Arteta acknowledged the pain of the result but said the focus must now be on 'what we do about this and how we write our own destiny' going forward. The manager previously issued a similar rallying cry after a defeat to Manchester United in January.

  • Arsenal have drawn their last two Premier League matches (February 2026).
  • Arsenal have won just two of their last seven Premier League games (January-February 2026).

The players

Mikel Arteta

The manager of Arsenal Football Club.

Gabriel Jesus

An Arsenal player who was involved in a post-match incident after the draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Yerson Mosquera

A Wolverhampton Wanderers player who was involved in the post-match incident with Gabriel Jesus.

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What they’re saying

“That's what we are trying to do. The instant reaction first of all is pain and after that, it's what can I do about it. That's it. Now what we have to do is perform on the pitch. The words are clear.”

— Mikel Arteta, Arsenal Manager (The New York Times)

“I was a player, love me when I draw and when I lose. To love when I win is very, very easy. You have to love the players and be next to them when they need it the most.”

— Mikel Arteta, Arsenal Manager (The New York Times)

What’s next

Arsenal face their north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur this weekend, providing an opportunity to regain some momentum.

The takeaway

Arteta's comments suggest he is trying to maintain team unity and morale during a challenging period for Arsenal, as they look to hold onto their lead at the top of the Premier League table.