# Arsenal FC tactical evolution and performance > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/arsenal-fc-tactical-evolution-and-performance > Updated: 2026-10-02T12:33:04.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has highlighted the tactical evolution under manager Mikel Arteta, noting a shift toward increased defensive responsibilities and winning duels. Havertz described his role as fluid, focusing on controlling space and disrupting opposition build-up rather than acting as a traditional goalscorer. Following Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years, the team’s tactical approach has faced scrutiny. Critics have characterized the playing style as overly defensive and reliant on set pieces, a sentiment underscored by a narrow loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final, where Arsenal recorded a possession rate of just 24.7 percent. Thierry Henry has defended Arteta’s methods, arguing that becoming “tough and difficult to play against” was a necessary step to compete with dominant sides. Henry noted that while the style may not be described as “pretty,” the team’s ability to achieve results and dominate opponents justifies the approach. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-02: Thierry Henry defends Mikel Arteta and Arsenal's playing style Thierry Henry has defended Mikel Arteta against criticism of Arsenal’s defensive playing style, arguing that the manager deserves respect for securing the Premier League title. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/thierry-henry-defends-mikel-arteta-and-arsenals-playing-style ### 2026-09-19: Kai Havertz credits Mikel Arteta for transforming his playing style Kai Havertz explains how Mikel Arteta has transformed his game at Arsenal, emphasizing increased defensive work rate and a tactical role that prioritizes space control over traditional goalscoring. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kai-havertz-credits-mikel-arteta-for-transforming-his-playing-style --- Cite as: Arsenal FC tactical evolution and performance. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/arsenal-fc-tactical-evolution-and-performance