Arsenal doing better than ‘big mouth’ rivals, says Dutchman

Arsenal have endured much criticism whilst rivals Manchester City and Chelsea have had a comparatively easy ride from the media despite similar disappointments in cup competitions.

Van Persie said: “A club like Manchester City change their philosophy every year and Chelsea spent about €80m this season … two clubs who had a big mouth before the season, thinking that Arsenal wouldn’t play a role in the title race but we are still ahead of them. And just by playing our own game, through our own philosophy.”