Football Daily | Arsenal don’t just drop points, they perform theatrical acts of self-sabotage

Guardian Sport

by Barry Glendenning

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Arsenal’s promising season took an unexpected turn as they squandered a two-goal lead against struggling Wolves in a wet and windy match at Molineux. Despite being top of the league, preparing for key fixtures like the FA Cup semi-final and a trip to Wembley, Arsenal’s performance was marred by a series of unforced errors and poor decision-making. The game, which should have been an easy win against a team fighting to avoid relegation, ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving fans puzzled and frustrated. The match began with Arsenal dominating possession and scoring two goals within the first half, with hopes of a convincing victory. However, the second half saw a collapse in concentration and composure. Key mistakes, including missed opportunities and defensive lapses, allowed Wolves to equalize and salvage a point. The draw not only halted Arsenal’s momentum but also raised questions about their ability to handle pressure and maintain consistency. This result highlights the challenges Arsenal faces as they aim to compete on multiple fronts this season. While they remain in a strong position in the Premier League table, their inability to secure three points against a weaker opponent underscores concerns about their mental toughness and game management under pressure. Manager Mikel Arteta’s tactical decisions, particularly during stoppage time when he chose to waste a goalkeeping error instead of capitalizing on it, further drew criticism. The draw also adds fuel to the debate surrounding Arsenal’s transfer window activity and whether they have adequately addressed the depth and quality required for a multi-competition campaign. With key matches ahead, including the FA Cup final and potential Champions League qualification, Arsenal’s ability to maintain focus will be crucial. This match serves as a reminder that even top-tier teams can falter against lesser opponents if they fail to execute their game plan and handle pressure effectively. For Arsenal fans, the outcome was both disappointing and perplexing, raising questions about whether their team is truly ready to challenge for major trophies this season.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/19/2026