Mikel Arteta has called on his Arsenal squad to “stand up” and show their title credentials after a dramatic 2–2 draw at rock-bottom Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The Gunners appeared to be cruising toward a seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League after goals from Bukayo Saka and Piero Hincapie put them 2–0 ahead at a snowy Molineux.
However, the leaders collapsed in the closing stages, allowing Hugo Bueno to pull one back before teenage debutant Tom Edozie capitalised on a stoppage-time mix-up between David Raya and Gabriel Magalhaes to equalise.
Admitted his side deserved criticism for “self-inflicted wounds” and a second-half performance that failed to meet Premier League standards. He urged his players to “take the hit” and respond immediately: “When you have a moment of difficulty, we have to show how much we want it”.
Echoed his manager’s frustration, noting a significant drop in standards during the second half and stating it is now time for the team to focus on self-improvement.
Frustrations boiled over at the final whistle as Raya and Gabriel were seen in a heated exchange, while Gabriel Jesus was involved in a confrontation with Wolves’ Yerson Mosquera.
By Anthony Solly
