Jamie Carragher has criticised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for being overly cautious in big games, warning that such an approach could derail their Premier League title challenge.

Arsenal earned a dramatic 1-1 draw against Manchester City at the Emirates, with Gabriel Martinelli rescuing a point in stoppage time after Erling Haaland’s early opener. Despite dominating possession, the Gunners struggled to create chances until late substitutions changed the game.

Carragher argued that Arteta’s decision to start with a conservative midfield trio of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino limited Arsenal’s attacking edge. He compared it to his own time at Liverpool, when he felt Gerard Houllier and Rafa Benitez often “had the handbrake on,” costing them league titles.

“Arsenal are close to being something really special,” Carragher said. “But in these big matches, Arteta sets up thinking too much about the opposition. That pattern, if it continues, could cost them the Premier League again.”

Arsenal now sit five points behind leaders Liverpool.