So much is at stake as the 2021/22 season draws to a close, and for Arsenal, so much more, which all the more made last night’s result in the North London derby, a tough one to swallow.

It had taken Arsenal years to find themselves in Europe’s grand tournament of Champions, and seeing them having a chance to guaranty themselves a place in it with a top 4 finish ahead of London rivals, Tottenham with nothing but a victory against them, it felt like a chance out from the heavens. Except they did not take it.

And in that regard, Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has reacted to their 3-0 heavy defeat against arch rivals, Spurs on Thursday.

In his post match interview, the Arsenal boss cut a frustrated figure as he stood to reporters while being asked on his thoughts concerning the match, to reveal he will be “suspended for six months” if he gave anything away or made through his opinion on the game or the decisions that had gone against his team.

The Gunners conceded what was said to be a controversial penalty, before defender, Rob Holding was sent off after picking up two yellow cards in the first half.

Their night was made worse after Harry Kane had buried his spot kick past Aaron Ramsdale and into the back of the net with one more goal as Spurs took a proper lead against Arsenal, before Heung-Min Son added one more after the break to end any hopes of an Arsenal comeback.

When Arteta was asked about the referee’s decisions, he said: “If I say what I think I’m suspended six months. I’m allowed to give my interpretation of what happened but I don’t know how to lie.”