Premier League
Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Fires Back At Jamie Carragher Over ‘Handbrake’ Jibe
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has laughed off accusations that he plays with the “handbrake on,” insisting that his philosophy is among the most attacking in the Premier League.
Sky Sports pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher had criticised Arsenal for a cautious approach against Manchester City at the weekend. Carragher claimed that Arteta’s team selection and tactics showed a preference for safety over ambition.
However, ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup trip to Port Vale, Arteta defended his methods, emphasizing the attacking qualities of his squad. He highlighted goalkeeper David Raya, defender Gabriel, and midfielder Mikel Merino as examples of players who actively contribute to forward play.
“For sure, if you look at the players that we have, starting from the keeper—very attacking goalkeeper, the most attacking goalkeeper in the league by far,” Arteta said.
“The centre-backs, the most attacking one in one phase, the most attacking one. The two full-backs—you look at every stat, that’s it. We mainly play with a player on the right-hand side attacking midfield; he played as a nine last year.
“So how attacking that is—more than a nine playing in midfield—I haven’t seen it in the league. We have a lot of attacking talent with different qualities, some of them more talented in certain areas than others in relation to the game that we play.”
Arteta also pointed to the club’s recent winning record, goal-scoring stats, and clean sheets as proof of Arsenal’s offensive approach, noting that even in high-pressure matches like the one against Manchester City, his team demonstrates an attacking mindset.
“I cannot waste the opportunity to highlight that,” Arteta concluded, sending a clear message to critics that Arsenal’s philosophy is forward-focused and results-driven.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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