Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, speaking to Sky Sports:
“A really tough test. We knew that because of their approach. We have to give them credit because they make it very difficult. They constantly take the game to the areas that suit them.”
“The added time at the end of each half says it all. It’s normal. Regis and his team try to give their best, and so do we.”
“What we needed to improve was analyzing how we were conceding goals. It’s very clear what they do, they do it very well. To demonstrate it and try to train it, then you have to execute it on the pitch.”
“We needed a goal to believe. We got it and put them on the ropes. We created many chances and then scored the second goal, which is the hardest thing to do.”
“It’s another direct ball, we lose control of the ball, and the striker gets his leg in incredibly well to anticipate the bounce and score.”
” Le Bris: We had to play at our best to draw with Arsenal.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris, speaking to Sky Sports:
“I think we showed our character and unity once again. As expected, we struggled against a very strong team. Even in the difficult moments, we showed that it was possible to turn things around and create something until the very end.”
“We had to be the best Sunderland we could be in the different phases of the game. The first half was interesting and balanced. We were well-organized, playing out of position, and capable of creating danger from set pieces.”
“We had good players on the ball. In the second half, it was a bit more difficult. We were more fragile on the ball and conceded a goal like that. But it’s a very valuable lesson because we have a very young squad with no Premier League experience.”
“We have a well-balanced team with different options. Different profiles. When we prepared for this season, it was very important to add some physicality, and I think that showed today.”
