The Arsenal centre-back has offered an insight into the team's defensive ethos after an excellent start to the season
Matt C Jones
06:00, 17 Nov 2025
Cristhian Mosquera of Arsenal
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Cristhian Mosquera of Arsenal
Arsenal centre-back Cristhian Mosquera has offered a glimpse into the mentality behind the team’s remarkable defensive record this season.
The Gunners have been excellent in the Premier League and hold a four-point lead at the summit ahead of Manchester City. The bedrock of the team’s strong form has been their play at the back, with just five goals conceded across 11 top-flight matches so far.
Mosquera arrived at the Emirates Stadium from Valencia this summer to offer cover for William Saliba and Gabriel. The 21-year-old has impressed in his outings so far, although competition is fierce at centre-back.
Speaking to the Guardian while on Spain Under-21 duty, Mosquera was asked what makes the Gunners so good in defence.
“We’re very, very aware of what we have to do,” Mosquera said. “The goal is our house and no one is allowed in, no one is allowed near our area. Then be dangerous in attack. There’s a tactical element of course – the movements – but I think a lot of it is a mental thing, attitude.
“Our house: do not enter. Inside the dressing room, we believe in ourselves. We know what we’re capable of, we know where we can go.”
Mosquera also revealed that Arteta encourages the players to take pride in their defending and try to enjoy keeping the opposition out.
“It gives you that subidón , a high, a surge of self-esteem,” he said “And that’s something the manager and staff tell us: to enjoy defending. Those typical actions where you make a tackle or a block: celebrate them. That gives life to the team, brings energy. That’s important and this group has it.
“Look at those moments when the entire team is running back. That’s a fundamental part of this season.”
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Mosquera could be in line to start for Arsenal after the international break when they welcome north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur to the Emirates Stadium.
Gabriel looks to be a major doubt for the contest, as he hobbled out of Brazil’s 2-0 friendly win over Senegal with an apparent groin problem.
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