Mikel Arteta refused to criticise his Arsenal players after their 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Southampton but challenged them to 'look in the mirror' as the season reaches a crucial stage. The Gunners, who lost the Carabao Cup final to Manchester City two weeks earlier, suffered another setback at St Mary's with goals from Ross Stewart and substitute Shea Charles.

Despite the loss, Arsenal remain nine points clear at the top of the Premier League, though Manchester City have a game in hand and host the Gunners at the Etihad in coming weeks. Arteta defended his squad, saying 'I love my players' and insisted he would 'defend them more than ever' despite mounting injuries and form issues. Gabriel Magalhães limped off with a knee problem during the match, adding to Arsenal's defensive concerns.

Arteta admitted his team failed to deal with Southampton's long-ball approach, calling it 'very strange' that his defenders struggled with direct play. Sky Sports pundit Micah Richards criticised Arsenal's attitude, suggesting the team's defensive excellence this season was absent in the loss. With City charging and individual errors rising, Arsenal face growing questions about their title credentials as the season enters its final stretch.