Walcott Urges Arsenal to Embrace Risk Following Liverpool Defeat
Former Arsenal star Theo Walcott believes the Gunners need to demonstrate greater attacking courage after their 1-0 loss to Liverpool in their opening match of the 2025-26 Premier League season. Walcott’s assessment comes amid observations that Arsenal appeared hesitant to fully commit to an attacking strategy against Liverpool.
Many observers felt Arsenal didn’t push for an attacking game against Liverpool as much as they should have, resulting in their first league defeat under manager Mikel Arteta. Walcott acknowledged the match lacked a clear dominant performance from either side, stating, “I would not say that Arsenal played at an inappropriate level. Actually, I think that game does not have any teams that can be played as a winner.And it will always measure from a special rhythm, that is my feelings.”
though, walcott pinpointed a crucial difference between the teams: a willingness to take risks. “The difference is the so-called courage to risk. And I think that point is what Arsenal is missing now. The striker needs to be risky if wanting to win,” he explained.
Walcott also highlighted a positive tactical shift by Arteta, noting, “I think that the overall hill (Arta) changed at the right moment and the playing plan is going well for Arsenal.” He specifically praised the impact of substitute Ee, who “broke through the support of Liverpool and almost creates problems,” while also suggesting a need for increased pace in his play.
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