Mikel Arteta’s tenure as Arsenal manager continues to be marked by challenges at two of the Premier League’s most formidable away grounds: Anfield and the Etihad Stadium. The Spanish coach’s struggles at Liverpool and Manchester City remain a significant barrier as Arsenal seeks to contend for the title.

Arteta’s difficulties date back to his playing days. In February 2014, as an Arsenal midfielder, he experienced a heavy 5-1 defeat at Anfield, a match that left a lasting impression on him. Arteta has described the experience as a form of mental paralysis, overwhelmed by the intense atmosphere and pace of the game. Seeking to prepare his current squad for similar conditions, he once installed large speakers at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground to simulate Liverpool’s famous Anfield anthem. Nonetheless, the Gunners suffered a 4-0 defeat there in November 2021.

Since assuming the managerial role seven years ago, Arteta’s record against Liverpool away has been modest, with no Premier League wins in six attempts—recording three draws and three losses. Arsenal’s last league victory at Anfield came in September 2012, a game in which Arteta himself played. Meanwhile, at the Etihad Stadium, Arsenal have fared only slightly better, managing five defeats and two draws in seven league outings under Arteta.

Statistical analysis highlights the extent of the challenge. Arsenal’s points per game away under Arteta are lowest against Manchester City (0.29) and Liverpool (0.50) across all Premier League teams faced during his spell. The matches test not only tactical aptitude but also psychological resilience due to the hostile environments.

Tactically, Arteta has shown a tendency towards caution in these fixtures. A narrow 1-0 loss to Liverpool in August 2025, where Arsenal appeared to settle for a draw until a late free-kick goal, exemplified this approach. Emphasizing defensive solidity, a hallmark of Arteta’s strategy, has occasionally come at the expense of offensive ambition. Arsenal’s attacking output at Anfield notably declines, with possession dropping from 56.3% to 43.2%, expected goals falling from 1.6 to 1.1, and big chances created decreasing from 3.1 to 1.8 per game compared to other away matches over the past two seasons.

The intense atmosphere at Anfield plays a crucial role, a factor acknowledged by former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour. He notes that the crowd’s early pressure during the first 15 to 20 minutes can either unsettle visitors or be subdued if the away side applies immediate pressure and scores first. Historically, Arsenal’s slow starts have compounded their difficulties. In the six league games at Anfield under Arteta, their second-half attacking metrics surpass those of the first half, indicating a delayed response to the opposition’s intensity. Conversely, last season, Arsenal scored first in nearly all their 26 league victories, underscoring the importance of early dominance.

For Arsenal to overcome their recent away struggles at these pivotal venues, a more assertive start and greater clinical finishing will be essential. As Liverpool and Manchester City continue to be leading contenders, breaking this pattern will be crucial for Arsenal’s title ambitions under Arteta’s management.