Mikel Arteta defends Viktor Gyokeres and Arsenal team selection after Man City draw

The Gunners looked set to lose after Erling Haaland struck in the ninth minute, steering home Bernardo Silva's cross. City then kept Arsenal at bay for much of the contest, frustrating the home side with their defensive discipline.

But in the 93rd minute, substitute Gabriel Martinelli delivered a vital equaliser. The Brazilian latched onto a superb long ball from Eberechi Eze and showed remarkable composure to lift the ball over Gianluigi Donnarumma, sparking wild celebrations in north London.

Arteta, though, faced questions about his decision to start with a midfield three of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino, leaving out a natural number 10.

The Arsenal manager responded: "Too easy to say that. I think it's very clear what we wanted to do. We completely dominated after a difficult ten minutes following their goal. The second half was a continuation with different players, but the team had control."

The Spaniard pointed out that the same midfield trio started in last week's Champions League win at Athletic Club. "Nobody asked me about the midfield three in Bilbao, nobody. It's the same midfield. I thought it was the best way to start this game."

Jamie Carragher was among those to question Arsenal's approach, suggesting on Sky Sports that Arteta "wasted 45 minutes" by being overly cautious.

One of the key frustrations for Arsenal fans was the limited involvement of striker Viktor Gyokeres, who barely threatened City's defence. The Swedish forward has scored three goals in five league matches but is yet to deliver in the biggest fixtures.

Arteta defended his summer signing, insisting the team needed to support him better: "There were very good balls in the box, three of them he was very close to doing something with. Against City, big chances are very difficult, but he is trying his best.

"We have to provide more for him. The final pass was missing today."

Arsenal are currently second in the Premier League on ten points after five matches, while City are ninth with seven points. Liverpool lead the way on fifteen points, five clear at the top.

READ MORE: Abdeslam Ouaddou wary of Orlando Pirates squad management