On social media, a video showing Arteta leaving the technical area as Jadon Sancho held the ball near the touchline sparked debate. Many fans suggested Arteta's close proximity inadvertently – or intentionally – pressured the Aston Villa player, leading to a backward pass and subsequent loss of possession.
“How is this allowed?” commented the user who posted the video. Another critic stated Arteta 'blocked the opponent's path' and frequently used this tactic to both direct his players and pressure rivals.
According to UK newspaper Sportmail, Arteta has been observed leaving the technical area and moving close to the touchline in several major matches. During a League Cup fixture against Crystal Palace on 23/12, the Spanish coach's presence on the sideline reportedly caused an opposing player to mishandle the ball, sending it out of play.
Arteta also exhibited similar behavior in at least two London derbies against Tottenham. In one instance, he aimed to obstruct Pedro Porro from taking a throw-in, prompting the fourth official to intervene.
During Arsenal's match against Man City in 2/2023, Kevin De Bruyne reacted angrily when Arteta kicked the ball away as the Belgian midfielder prepared to take a quick throw-in. The two exchanged words before other staff members intervened.
At Emirates Stadium on 30/12, Arsenal scored 4 goals in the second half to defeat Aston Villa 4-1. This marked the largest winning margin in one Premier League match between two teams starting the round in the top 3, a feat not seen since Man City's 4-1 victory over Arsenal in 4/2023.
The Gunners consequently ended Aston Villa's 11-match winning streak and solidified their position at the top of the table with 45 points. This extended their lead to 5 points over Man City, who will visit newly promoted Sunderland on 1/1.
After the match, manager Unai Emery promptly entered the tunnel without shaking Arteta's hand. When questioned about the incident, he explained his quick disposition and stated he had waited for Arteta but did not see him, also citing the cold London weather. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reacted angrily to being mocked while leaving the field, reportedly seeking a confrontation with unruly fans of his former club, Arsenal.
In the post-match press conference, Arteta did not directly address the controversies but emphasized his philosophy of winning through all legitimate means. The 43-year-old coach stated, "To continue winning, you have to know how to win in many different contexts. Some games we played very well but couldn't convert opportunities. In this match, we were more effective and clinical in the penalty area."
On 3/1, Arsenal will visit Bournemouth in round 20 of the Premier League.
Hong Duy (via Daily Mail)
