Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Everton at the Emirates Stadium on December 14, 2024. 
Despite dominating possession with 77% and registering 13 shots, the Gunners were unable to breach Everton’s defense. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford played a pivotal role in securing the point for the visitors, making crucial saves against Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka.
Arteta made significant substitutions during the match, bringing on Ethan Nwaneri and Jorginho in place of Ødegaard and Declan Rice. When asked about Ødegaard’s substitution, Arteta explained, “Ødegaard’s sub? It was a tactical decision. No injury or anything else.” However, Arteta was aware of the potential reaction to taking off his captain, noting, “But I understand how it works… If Ethan Nwaneri comes in and scores it’s a great sub. If he doesn’t you’ve taken your captain off.” He concluded, “It’s football!”
In stoppage time, Arsenal were denied a penalty when Thomas Partey was adjudged to have been fairly challenged by Vitaly Mykolenko in the box, following a VAR review.
This result leaves Arsenal third in the Premier League standings with 30 points from 16 matches, six points behind leaders Liverpool, who also drew their match against Fulham. Everton, currently 15th, ended a three-match losing streak with this disciplined defensive performance.
Arteta acknowledged the team’s dominance but emphasized the importance of converting possession into goals, stating, “It’s about scoring goals.” Despite the setback, he remains optimistic about his team’s prospects, adding, “The boys are really fired up and looking forward to the game.”
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