Goalkeeper Matt Turner reflects on Arsenal’s recent cup exit against Manchester City, expressing disappointment in the outcome but also recognising the positives from the performance and the support of the travelling fans.
Despite making six changes to the starting lineup and putting in a solid defensive effort, Arsenal were ultimately unable to overcome the reigning Premier League champions in the FA Cup.
Speaking to Arsenal.com, Turner acknowledges the frustration of conceding a goal just after the hour mark, but believes that the team has a lot to build on moving forward.
He notes the strong defensive effort, particularly in defending their box, but laments the lack of clearance on the edge of the box that allowed the decisive goal to be scored.
Turner was also tasked with keeping Erling Haaland, one of the league’s top scorers, from finding the back of the net. While he credits the centre backs for their physicality and man-to-man battles, he also recognizes his role in sweeping up behind and being able to prevent Haaland from scoring.
Despite the accomplishment, he ultimately would have preferred a win to stopping Haaland from scoring.
“I can’t take full credit for that,” he said. “Our centre-backs did a great job – lots of man-to-man and one-on-one battles. Those guys did a really good job being physical with him and putting him off a bit.
“When I was called to sweep up behind, I was able to do that tonight. I’m proud of that – but I’d rather win and him score rather than lose and him not score.”
In addition to the performance on the field, Turner also expresses gratitude for the support from fans, both at home and on the road.
He notes the special feeling of having the support of the fans, who provide energy and drive for the team. Although the team was unable to give the fans the result they deserved, Turner still wants to thank them for their unwavering support and commitment to the club.
“We know how much the cup means to this club and the supporters and to us, so we’re really disappointed that we didn’t advance to the next round,” he said.
“But there are a lot of positives to take from the performance and stuff to build on for the future. The support we feel at Emirates Stadium and on the road is truly special. It really drives you, it keeps you going and makes away games feel like home games. We see the supporters and we feel them – they give us energy. We were disappointed not to give them what they deserved tonight but I want to say thank you to all of them for traveling.”