Neto calamity: ‘Sky Sports pundit explodes at Arsenal keeper vs Girona’
Arsenal goalkeeper Neto was heavily criticised after his error helped Girona’s opening goal in their Champions League clash, by Tim Sherwood.
The Gunners initially recovered from the setback to take a 2-1 lead, with Jorginho converting a penalty and Ethan Nwaneri scoring a stunning goal in his first Champions League start.
However, Neto—who stepped in for the injured David Raya—was at fault for Girona’s early goal, gifting the Spanish side the lead in the 28th minute.
Neto ran out to try and prevent Arnaut Danjuma who got in behind but the winger took an early shot leaving the goalkeeper frozen outside the box. He dived for the strike and since he was already outside the 18-yard-box, he could’ve received a red card if he got a hand to the ball.
Speaking on Sky Sports Soccer Special, Sherwood didn’t hold back in his assessment of the goalkeeper’s mistake, saying (8:39pm): “He was so much clear and Neto just gets himself in no-man’s land. I have no idea why. He ends up being about 18 yards out and Danjuma just hits it…”
He continued, “Surely he’s got to be offside? He looks like he’s offside to me, he comes from the wide area, he comes inside, outside of Partey, Neto ends up being 25 yards out from goal!”
“I have no idea why, and he makes the mind up of Danjuma who hits it first time, just whips it round him, it’s an easy finish once the goalkeeper starts rushing out like that.”
Arsenal’s goalkeeping dilemma worsens amid injury concerns
Football Insider Verdict
Mikel Arteta’s side went into the game in a strong position, having already secured 16 points in the Champions League first stage.
However, Neto’s costly error won’t fill fans with confidence, especially if David Raya remains sidelined for an extended period.
The Brazilian made his first appearance since joining on loan from Bournemouth, but his performance has raised concerns about Arsenal’s goalkeeping depth.
Arteta is already dealing with an injury crisis, with key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus out. Supporters have called for attacking reinforcements, with Ollie Watkins emerging as a target—though Arsenal’s initial bid was rejected.
Another injury, particularly in goal, could leave the squad even more vulnerable. The club is also unable to sign another domestic loan due to already filling both slots, leaving little flexibility in the market.
Despite fan frustration, Arsenal have no plans to cancel their existing loans, including Neto and Raheem Sterling, which could have opened the door for additional signings.
Neto was ineligible for the Carabao Cup due to being cup-tied with Bournemouth, meaning this was his first real chance to impress. But after his shaky display, it remains uncertain whether he will get many more opportunities.
In other news. Arsenal are concerned that a transfer target could end up playing for Man City.
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