Arteta’s side remain unbeaten but have fallen behind Manchester City in the title race (Picture: Getty)
Anton Ferdinand believes that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is ‘his own worst enemy’ and feels that the Spaniard’s overthinking could cost his side.
Despite going ahead twice in the north London derby on Sunday, Arteta’s team were pegged back on both occasions by Tottenham and were forced to settle with a 2-2 draw.
It continues Arsenal’s unbeaten start to the season, but they now sit four points off Manchester City at the top of the Premier League after the champions’ 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest.
Having pushed Pep Guardiola’s side all the way last season, Arteta has made a few changes to his side’s set-up this season. David Raya looks to have replaced Aaron Ramsdale in goal, while the Gunners boss appears to be trying to implement a more attacking midfield three with Martin Odegaard playing alongside new summer signings Declan Rice and Kai Havertz.
While Ferdinand believes that the chopping and changing could hurt his Arsenal side, the former Premier League defender still believes Arteta is the right man for the job.
‘At times I think he overthinks,’ he said speaking on FIVE’s YouTube channel. ‘He said it himself that he is obsessed with different formations and wanting to be the best.
‘You need to be like that but I feel like it can sometimes cloud his judgement when it comes to in-game management and he overthinks a bit.
‘But overall it’s fantastic what he’s doing. He’s bringing in younger players who will make them better in time.
‘You can see a clear identity not only in terms of the playing style but in terms of the culture and the direction of the football.
‘Last year they challenged for the title. This year, I know they have spent a lot of money and there is more pressure, however, he’s changed the club’s fortunes and the mentality of the fanbase to go ‘we are in it [the title race] again.”
More: Trending
Despite some critics, Arteta appears steadfast in his approach, even suggesting after his side’s win against Everton that he would consider substituting goalkeepers during a game.
Arsenal travel to Brentford in the third round of the Carabao Cup tonight before facing Bournemouth away in the league on Saturday.
MORE : ‘A real gem’ – Arsenal legend names Tottenham star as one of the best signings of the summer
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.