Mikel Arteta decided to put Granit Xhaka in the left-back position over Nuno Tavares for the clash with Brighton and paid the price for the risk. The Swiss international was caught out of position leading to the first goal.
Many supporters rightly criticised the Arsenal manager for dropping Tavares and weakening the midfield by isolating Albert Sambi Lokonga. With Southampton approaching, many are concerned that the Spaniard will repeat the decision and put Xhaka into his unorthodox role once again.
With this in mind, it was unsurprising that Arteta was asked about the decision in his pre-match press conference. He replied staunchly when asked whether there was a trust issue with Tavares.
