Arteta Hails Arsenal’s 4-1 Derby Rout as Perfect Response to ‘72 Hours in Hell’

Posted : 23 February 2026

Mikel Arteta said Arsenal F.C.’s commanding 4-1 victory over north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur F.C. served as an emotional release after what he described as 72 hours of torment for his team. The win ensured Arsenal maintained a five-point lead over Manchester City F.C. at the top of the Premier League standings.

The Gunners delivered a ruthless display at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres each scoring twice to seal an emphatic derby triumph. The performance came as a timely response following a damaging 2-2 draw against Wolves earlier in the week, where Arsenal surrendered a two-goal advantage and allowed control of the title race to slip from their hands.

That result had left the squad shaken, especially with the knowledge that City could claim the title by winning their remaining fixtures. Arteta admitted it had been difficult to lift spirits after such disappointment. However, he and his coaching staff worked intensely behind the scenes to refocus the squad, a turnaround that was evident in their dominant display against Tottenham.

Having already beaten their rivals 4-1 earlier in the season, Arsenal once again overwhelmed Spurs, deepening the hosts’ struggles near the foot of the table. Arteta expressed immense pride in his players’ resilience, saying the emotional response to adversity reflected their passion and commitment.

He acknowledged the anger and frustration that followed the Wolves draw but stressed the importance of unity and belief. According to the Arsenal manager, the players channelled those emotions positively, delivering one of their most complete performances of the campaign.

The victory marked Arsenal’s largest away league win at Tottenham since 1978 and ensured they completed a league double over their rivals in convincing fashion — a rare feat in the club’s history. Celebrations at full-time saw Arteta join his players in front of jubilant travelling supporters, while many home fans had already departed in disappointment.

For Tottenham, it was a harsh initiation for interim manager Igor Tudor, who recently replaced Thomas Frank. With injuries mounting and confidence fragile, Spurs remain just four points above the relegation zone, facing the prospect of their first season outside the top flight since 1977-78.

Tudor conceded that the gulf in quality was evident, describing Arsenal as one of the world’s elite sides. He admitted his team’s lack of confidence was apparent and called for humility, hard work, and self-reflection as Tottenham battle to avoid relegation.

Arteta Hails Arsenal’s 4-1 Derby Rout as Perfect Response to ‘72 Hours in Hell’

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