Martin Odegaard insists Arsenal are not being overwhelmed by the burden of three consecutive runner-up finishes in the Premier League. Rather, the Gunners skipper remains convinced Mikel Arteta's side must harness those setbacks as motivation to restore their poise in the league title battle after Sunday's devastating home loss to Manchester United.
When questioned whether he and his team-mates are tormented by their past failures, Odegaard responded: "Obviously it is a factor but it can be a good factor as well. I think it gives you more fuel, and more hunger and determination to get it done. I think we have experienced in all those seasons that it is a long run and a lot of things happen. We need to be together now, look for the next game and bounce back."
The Norwegian midfielder, who was withdrawn by Arteta in an unusual quadruple change on 58 minutes, insists he didn't sense the tension among supporters at the Emirates Stadium.
The edgy home environment in N5 - where fans have been walking on eggshells - has emerged as an escalating concern in recent weeks, with that unease now seemingly impacting the players.
Captain Odegaard refuses to apportion blame and has instead appealed for solidarity, stating: "I didn't feel that [nervous energy], to be honest. I was so focused on the game, I think there were definitely things we should have done better on the pitch.
"But it is time to be together now, it was never going to be easy as it is tough in this league. We just have to keep working and keep going. We are still top of the league and we will keep pushing each other - and be together now."
Former Gunners captain Patrick Vieira questioned Arsenal's mental strength in the Sky Sports studio following their three-goal defeat for the first time since December 2023.
Odegaard maintains Arsenal, who hold a four-point advantage, possess the qualities required to silence their critics. He added: "It is a long run and there is a long way to go. Obviously, we are very disappointed with today and we should have won this game.
"But that's football and there are going to be ups and downs. Now it is about how we deal with that and the key thing is to be together and work hard.
"Focus on the next game, win that, and go from there. We are still top of the league. We are still in a good position but obviously everyone feels disappointed with today.
"Let's be in the moment. Look for the next game, bounce back and be together now. That is all we are going to do."
Arsenal, currently without a victory in their previous three Premier League fixtures, resume their Champions League campaign on Wednesday evening, where European triumphs have come more readily.
The Gunners lead the league phase table and could secure their eighth consecutive win in midweek when they welcome Kazakh underdogs FC Kairat Almaty.