Arsenal defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Ezri Konsa have revealed how manager Mikel Arteta reacted to their defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion earlier this season, while offering insight into his demanding coaching methods.
The Premier League champions suffered a disappointing setback against Brighton, prompting an intense response from Arteta as he sought to prevent further performances of that nature.
Speaking in a joint interview, Konsa acknowledged that the Arsenal manager had been visibly frustrated by the defeat.
“Of course, there was a bit of a fiery reaction from him,” the England international admitted. “As players, that’s what you need sometimes to wake you up.”
Konsa explained that Arsenal had struggled to execute their game plan and repeatedly played into Brighton’s hands.
Calafiori similarly described the result as a wake-up call, although he believes the early timing of the defeat could ultimately benefit the squad.
“For sure it’s not going to happen again,” the Italian defender insisted.
Both players also praised Arteta’s demanding approach to coaching and the standards he maintains throughout the club.
Calafiori suggested that working under the Spaniard had convinced him Arsenal was the right environment for his development.
He believes Arteta’s influence will make him a better footballer and person by the end of their time together.
Konsa described the manager as a perfectionist whose attention to detail and passion extend beyond the players to the wider coaching staff.
The former Aston Villa defender also explained why he decided to join Arsenal, identifying their Premier League triumph and Arteta’s plans for him as decisive factors.
He admitted that Arsenal’s defensive system requires more running than he was accustomed to at Villa, despite his former club’s aggressive high defensive line.
However, Konsa believes the adjustment is helping him improve as he approaches the peak years of his career.
The 29-year-old also discussed the freedom afforded to Calafiori, who regularly moves into advanced positions during Arsenal’s attacking phases.
Calafiori credited Arteta with recognising his ability to influence matches further forward, sometimes occupying spaces normally associated with attacking midfielders or strikers.
Konsa explained that constant communication with Gabriel Magalhaes helps maintain defensive security whenever Arsenal’s full-backs advance.
The pair emphasised that Arsenal’s impressive defensive performances are built on collective organisation rather than individual contributions.
Their comments come as Arsenal prepare to face Liverpool on Sunday following their shock Carabao Cup elimination against Fleetwood Town.
Arteta will hope the standards highlighted by both defenders help his side respond positively at Anfield.