Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has hit back at criticism from former Manchester United player Paul Scholes. Scholes called Arsenal the “most boring” team that could win the Premier League. Mikel Arteta laughed it off and said his team is seen as the most exciting in Europe. This comes as Arsenal leads the league with strong stats in goals and defense. In this article, we break it down in simple terms.
Paul Scholes’ Criticism of Arsenal
Paul Scholes, a Manchester United legend, recently shared his thoughts on Arsenal’s style of play. He said if Arsenal wins the Premier League, they would be the most boring champions. Scholes thinks their games lack excitement, even though they get results. He made these comments on a podcast, pointing out that Arsenal focuses more on not losing than on thrilling fans. Scholes has praised Arsenal before but now feels their approach is too safe.
This isn’t the first time Arsenal faces such talk. Critics say their solid defense makes games predictable. But Scholes’ words stung because Arsenal is top of the table, unbeaten in many matches. Fans and experts were quick to react, with some agreeing and others defending the team.
Arteta’s Strong Response
In a press conference, Arteta was asked about Scholes’ comments. He smiled and said he hears the complete opposite from people around Europe. “I hear completely the opposite: all around Europe that we are the most exciting team in Europe with the most goals, the most clean sheets,” Arteta stated. He joked that maybe he has different sources than Scholes.
Mikel Arteta even mentioned having a “book of people” who praise Arsenal’s exciting play. He invited critics to talk directly, saying he’s open to chats if they share their details. His response was calm but firm, showing confidence in his team’s style. Arteta focused on facts like Arsenal’s high goal tally and strong defense.
• Reporter: "There are critics saying Arsenal's style is not very exciting."
🚨🗣️ Arteta: "I heard completely the opposite. All around Europe they say we are the most exciting team. Most goals, most clean sheets, most this…"
• Reporter: "Why do you think people are saying… pic.twitter.com/qX5JzXtwiQ
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) February 3, 2026
Arsenal’s Impressive Form This Season
Arsenal is having a great 2025-2026 season so far. They lead the Premier League with the most goals scored and the fewest conceded. The players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and the new signings are shining. Their attack is fast and creative, while the defense is rock-solid.
In Europe, Arsenal has thrilled in the Champions League with big wins. Arteta’s tactics mix possession play with quick counters, making games fun to watch. Stats back him up: more goals than rivals like Manchester City or Liverpool. This form proves why Arteta calls them exciting.
"I have heard completely the opposite… we are the most exciting team in Europe." 🗣️
Mikel Arteta doesn't agree with people calling Arsenal's style "boring" 😴 pic.twitter.com/BkTEP764Zo
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) February 3, 2026
Reactions from Pundits and Fans
Not just Mikel Arteta but others slammed Paul Scholes too. Former Arsenal player Martin Keown said Scholes’ comment was like one of his rough tackles: wild and off-target. Pundit Simon Jordan agreed, calling it unfair. He noted that winning teams often get called boring by losers.
Fans on social media backed Arteta. Many pointed to exciting matches like Arsenal’s 4-0 thrashings. Some joked Scholes is biased from his United days. Overall, the response boosted Arsenal’s morale.
Ahead for Arsenal
Arteta’s words show his focus on success, not critics. Arsenal aims for the Premier League title after years of waiting. With upcoming games against top teams, they can prove their excitement on the pitch. Several critics still involve unhealthy criticism. The only way to stop them is the constant proof by winning the matches the remaining match and eventually winning the title. Moreover, the years of hunger will also be digested.
This spat highlights football’s debates: is winning enough, or must it be flashy? Arteta believes Arsenal does both. As the season goes on, fans will watch if they stay Europe’s most exciting team.
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