Mikel Arteta expressed empathy towards Everton’s unprecedented points deduction, acknowledging it as a challenging juncture for his former club, currently facing the imminent threat of relegation.
During the recent international break, Everton incurred a substantial 10-point deduction, purportedly for violating the Premier League’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations. This decision, under appeal by Everton, positions them 19th in the league standings, merely two points away from the safety zone.
Arteta, holding an affectionate regard for the Merseyside team from his tenure spanning January 2005 to August 2011, wishes for their resilience and resolve to navigate through this unexpected setback. He emphasizes the necessity for Everton to exhibit bravery and determination in their battle for survival in the Premier League.
Historically, Everton, a founding member of the Premier League in 1992, has teetered on the brink of relegation multiple times, notably in 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2022, and 2023, yet has consistently evaded the drop.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League fixture against Brentford, Arteta shared his sentiments about Everton’s penalty, the most significant ever imposed in Premier League history. He highlighted his deep connection with the club and expressed sympathy for their challenging predicament, citing Everton’s intrinsic traits of courage, determination, and resilience, which he believes will aid them in overcoming adversity.
The Premier League had charged Everton with breaching FFP regulations back in March, but the timing of the decision during the international break caught Arteta off guard. Lacking intricate knowledge of the regulations or the complete context of the situation, he refrained from extensive comment.
Meanwhile, Everton supporters are preparing to voice their discontent regarding the Premier League’s decision during the upcoming match against Manchester United at Goodison Park. Fan group The 1878 has raised funds exceeding £40,000 to display new banners at the stadium, emphasizing the impact of this punishment on the passionate fan base who stand by Everton, a cornerstone of football heritage in the nation.
Arsenal performance and stats
Arsenal is currently 3rd in the Premier League with 27 points.
In the last 12 games, it has won 8 times, drawn 3 times, and lost once. In its last match, Arsenal won 3-1 against Burnley.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 26 goals and conceding 10.
Arsenal will play the next match in Premier League against Brentford on Saturday 25th of November in Brentford. The prediction is Arsenal winning the match.
Everton performance and stats
Everton is currently 14th in the Premier League with 14 points.
In the last 12 games, it has won 4 times, drawn twice, and lost 6 times. In its last match, Everton won 2-3 against Crystal Palace.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 14 goals and conceding 17.
Everton will play the next match in Premier League against Manchester United on Sunday 26th of November in Liverpool. The prediction is Manchester United winning the match.