Mikel Arteta’s four-year tenure at the helm of Arsenal has brought a notable transformation to the club’s fortunes, rejuvenating them as contenders for the Premier League title.
Over this period, the Spanish manager has solidified his status as one of the world’s premier coaches, showcasing astute tactical acumen and a galvanizing presence on the touchline.
However, Arteta’s touchline behavior, characterized by passionate but occasionally exasperated expressions and actions during matches, has been subject to criticism. Often, he strays from the confines of his technical area, almost venturing onto the playing field itself.
Arteta’s intensity has led to him receiving two bookings in the current Premier League season, which would trigger a one-match touchline suspension if he accumulates another.
In the lead-up to Arsenal’s home fixture against Sheffield United, Arteta addressed his touchline demeanor and acknowledged that it might have impacted the club’s image in the past. He stated, “I think I am changing.
If you think differently, let me know. But I have made a conscious effort. Basically, I don’t want to get sent off. Sometimes when I look at myself and I’m so agitated, I think it can sometimes give an image that is not the best, mainly for the club.”
Arteta’s conduct during matches stems from his desire to passionately represent and defend the club’s interests, even when faced with difficult decisions in the heat of the moment. He emphasized that his actions are driven by a commitment to protecting the players and the club’s reputation.
The primary focus for Arteta is on ensuring that Arsenal is operating at its best and is as competitive as possible.
He explained, “What I demand of the players, I don’t like them during the game like they are on a sunbed. I like them to feel every single ball, I demand them to do that. But with emotional behavior, they have to control it.”
In discussing the disciplinary rule that imposes a touchline ban on managers after three yellow cards compared to five for players, Arteta raised concerns about the fairness of the system.
He questioned why managers, who are actively involved throughout every match, are held to a more stringent standard than players. He expressed his belief that the rule is unjust and requires a reevaluation.
