Mathieu Flamini has revealed Arsene Wenger predicted Man Utd would wilt late on.
Mathieu Flamini has revealed Arsene Wenger predicted Manchester United would wilt in the closing stages of Sunday's defeat to Arsenal.
The Premiership leaders took a 53rd minute lead through Wayne Rooney, but succumbed to a late Gunners comeback as Robin van Persie and Thierry Henry scored in the closing seven minutes.
Flamini admits United made it difficult for Arsenal, but acknowledged a half-time pep talk from Wenger ensured The Gunners would never give up.
"During half-time, the coach told us," Flamini told L'Equipe.
"He asked us to remain focused and strong because Manchester will give up physically in the last 20 minutes.
"He said: 'They are not the same anymore after 70 minutes'. Once again, the coach was right!
"We have to be honest, Manchester played very well and we had difficulties to play our game. They countered us very well.
"But Arsenal is not only a team that plays nice football, it is also a team that never gives up."
Flamini replaced the suspended Gilberto Silva in central midfield and the Frenchman was happy with his contribution in the 2-1 win.
He added: "I believe I achieved a good match. It is not a secret that I prefer to play in the midfield.
"The coach trusts me. Competition is very tough at Arsenal, you have to fight during each match.
"But that's just like that in a great club and I enjoy it."
