Porto’s head coach, Sergio Conceicao, has responded to Mikel Arteta’s assertion that his squad displayed ‘no intention of playing’ during Arsenal’s Champions League defeat.
The match at Estadio do Dragao seemed headed for a goalless draw until Porto seized an opportunity created by Gabriel Martinelli’s mistake, resulting in Galeno scoring with a brilliant curling shot from outside the box.
Arteta’s team, which had demonstrated dynamic movement in the Premier League recently, failed to register a shot on goal in the Champions League – a first for Arsenal since 2011.
In analyzing Porto’s tactics, Arteta expressed that his team faced challenges, particularly in the first half, against defensive blocks they are accustomed to.
He acknowledged areas for improvement and emphasized the team’s positive attitude despite encountering a low block from Porto.
Responding to Arteta’s comments about Porto’s approach to the game, Conceicao stated that it’s an opinion, asserting that his team wanted to play, just as Arsenal aimed to win.
He acknowledged the differences in football philosophies, highlighting Arteta’s background in the Guardiola school of coaching.
Conceicao mentioned the belief, stemming from Guardiola’s coaching style, that possessing the ball more leads to success.
However, he added that the effectiveness of this approach depends on the squad and its players.
