Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres has responded firmly to criticism from former club hero Freddie Ljungberg following the Gunners’ 1-0 loss to Liverpool at Anfield.The North London side went into the heavyweight clash with back-to-back wins over Manchester United and Leeds, raising hopes of a strong early-season statement. But despite their momentum, Mikel Arteta’s men struggled to create chances and managed only a single shot on target before a late Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick sealed victory for the reigning champions.After the game, frustrations grew among fans and pundits over Arsenal’s conservative approach, with Gary Neville branding their backwards passing “a disease in the modern game.” Ljungberg, who once managed the club on an interim basis, went further, admitting he felt “sad” watching a team he believes has moved away from the free-flowing, attacking style Arsenal were once admired for across the globe.“When I used to travel, people would tell me they weren’t Arsenal fans but always loved watching us because of the way we played,” Ljungberg reflected. “It was bold, attacking football that made you proud. But seeing a side that constantly looks to reduce risks and slow things down—even on set-pieces—feels disappointing. With the talent they have, I’d like to see them be more adventurous.”Gyökeres, however, was quick to defend his teammates, pointing out that criticism is far easier from the sidelines than in the middle of a high-stakes battle. “It’s easy to comment if you’re not the one on the pitch,” the striker argued, stressing that adapting tactics against a team of Liverpool’s quality is part of the game.The debate leaves Arsenal fans torn—should Arteta’s men stick to pragmatism against elite rivals, or return to the daring style that once made them the neutrals’ favorite?
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