Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager (43), sparked controversy by saying that Arsenal lost last season's Premier League title because Son Heung-min (33, LAFC), who used to play in a Tottenham uniform, lacked finishing ability.
British outlet Tribuna reported on the 1st (Korea time) that Arteta named Son Heung-min as one of the main reasons for last season's failure to win the title.
Arsenal finished second last season, two points behind Manchester City after a fierce title race. The moment Arteta regretted most was a one-on-one chance created by Son Heung-min during his Tottenham days.
The moment came in May 2024, during the rescheduled Premier League round 34 match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. With Manchester City leading 1-0 in the 41st minute of the second half, Son Heung-min broke through the defensive line in a perfect counterattack and faced Ederson. However, his right-foot shot went straight to the goalkeeper and was wasted. Seconds later, Manchester City scored again on the counterattack and the match ended 2-0.
As a result, Arsenal finished the season with 89 points. They were just two points behind champions Manchester City.
At a recent news conference, Arteta emphasized, "Titles can be decided by one moment. Whether you score or miss a one-on-one chance can change the direction of the entire season."
When a reporter asked, "Are you referring to Son Heung-min in that moment?" he smiled briefly and replied, "Many moments come to mind." He avoided a direct mention, but it was clear whom his comments referred to.
Fan reactions were mixed. Tottenham fans criticized, "Arsenal's failure was due to their own performance; why mention Son Heung-min?" Others added, "Blaming external factors for a title failure is not the proper attitude for a manager."
Some Arsenal fans interpreted, "Arteta mentioning Son Heung-min was not shirking responsibility but intended to convey that small details decide titles." However, the view that bringing up a rival club's player unnecessarily provoked controversy was more common.
Arsenal are again challenging for the top this season. In the opening 10 matches of the 2025-2026 season they have 8 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss, sitting alone in first with 25 points.
Arteta said, "Last season's experience made us stronger. Now we must become a team that is not shaken by small variables."
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