Gary Neville clarifies Arsenal’s shortcomings with repeated criticism of two underperforming players.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal missed the chance to narrow the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool to four points, settling for a 1-1 draw against Brighton on Saturday. Gary Neville expressed frustration with Arsenal forwards Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, criticizing their positioning and lack of impact in recent games.

Arsenal’s draw came after Liverpool dropped points in a dramatic 2-2 home draw against a struggling Manchester United side on Sunday. The Gunners’ match against Brighton saw a controversial penalty in the 61st minute allow the hosts to level the game.

While injuries limited Arsenal’s bench options, Neville was unsparing in his critique, singling out Jesus and Havertz. He said, “I love Gabriel Jesus, he’s got heart, but he’s everywhere except where you want him. Havertz is similar—you need them in the six-yard box. Watching them can be frustrating because they have potential, but they need to improve significantly.”

Havertz, sidelined by illness for two games, has been a key player for Arsenal this season, contributing seven goals and two assists in 17 league matches. Jesus has scored just three league goals but has been vital in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup run, netting four goals in three games. Despite their contributions, Neville believes both must elevate their performances if Arsenal hopes to win the league.

Neville also questioned Arsenal’s inability to dominate in the final third and close out games, emphasizing that it’s not bad luck or penalties costing them but their failure to take control. “I expected Arsenal to grow into the second half of the season and win the league, but Liverpool look more dynamic up front. Arsenal needs to address this, whether through returning players, tactical changes, or new January signings. However, major signings like Alexander Isak for £150 million are unrealistic.”

Arsenal faces a busy schedule, starting with the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Newcastle United tonight (January 7). They’ll also host Manchester United in the FA Cup third round on Sunday, January 12, at 3 pm.