Mikel Arteta has called on managers to set a good example following a touchline incident involving Diego Simeone. The Arsenal boss made these comments ahead of his side's Champions League match against Atletico Madrid, managed by Simeone.
Simeone was handed a one-match touchline ban by UEFA after clashing with Liverpool supporters at the end of Atletico Madrid's 3-2 defeat at Anfield in September. Following a late goal by Virgil van Dijk, Simeone was seen in a heated argument with fans, leading to his dismissal. Simeone later stated that insults from the crowd triggered his reaction, though he admitted his response was unjustifiable. He also expressed his hope that Liverpool would take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Arteta acknowledged the intense emotions experienced during matches, stating, "It is difficult because you are defending your club, your players, and small details can define at the end whether you win a match or not". He admitted that he has made mistakes in the past and tries to learn from them. "If you react in a way which is not good, we have a responsibility to be an example," Arteta said.
The Arsenal manager, whose own touchline behavior has been scrutinized in the past, recognizes the challenges of remaining composed. "We are there living it with high emotions and it is difficult to control," he noted. "We get really emotional and we start to run with our players and celebrating goals. It is something natural and it has to be understood in a respectful way". Despite the difficulty, Arteta strives to maintain calm, while acknowledging that it is not always easy.
Arsenal will not provide extra security for Diego Simeone, despite the Atletico Madrid manager's clash with a Liverpool fan last month.
Arteta has previously faced scrutiny regarding his conduct on the touchline. In January 2023, he defended his passionate demeanor, stating that he tries his best for the club and plays with passion. However, he also acknowledged the importance of self-reflection and change when necessary. In November 2023, Arteta was charged with misconduct by the FA for his comments on officiating after a defeat against Newcastle. The FA alleged that his comments were insulting and detrimental to the game. However, the charges were later dropped. More recently, in a pre-season friendly against Tottenham, Arteta was warned about encroaching on the technical area.
Despite the past incidents and scrutiny, Arteta maintains that managers have a responsibility to set a positive example. He also expressed his admiration for Simeone, recognizing his achievements and the strong identity he has created at Atletico Madrid. "Obviously he is someone that I look up to and have learned from him in many situations," Arteta said. "I rate him at the highest level".
Arteta faces Simeone for the first time as managers in their Champions League group clash at the Emirates Stadium.
