Mikel Arteta left ‘uncomfortable’ in awkward interaction with obsessive fan | Football | Sport
Mikel Arteta has admitted feeling ‘exposed’ and ‘not very comfortable’ after a persistent Arsenal fan repeatedly asked him for an autograph while he was with his wife. Arteta was leaving the Emirates Stadium on Sunday after Arsenal’s victory over Wigan Athletic, returning home with his family to an area where fans often spot notable figures from the club.
The manager adhered to the club’s safety protocol, which advises players and coaches not to roll down their car windows when approached by supporters, a policy which was reassessed at Arsenal just three years ago. The club said: “Our safety guidelines and protocols remain that the manager, players and coaches are advised not to roll down their vehicle windows when driving.”
However, Arteta, despite expressing his wish to be respectful, expressed his concerns over the incident when questioned further.
“I always try to be very respectful,” he said. “I like to sign and photograph as much as I can. I think that’s part of our role.
“But there are certain things in terms of safety that we have to respect. And especially when some people do it, they don’t do it for the right reasons.
“We have other examples. The last time my wife was there, and what was reported in the media, it was totally false and unfair. But that’s it.
“I’d rather talk about other amazing people who come sincerely because they want to have that interaction.
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“And I think everyone knows me, how happy I am to do this.”
Arteta took time off after the Brentford match before boarding the team’s coaching staff following the 1-1 stalemate at the Gtech Community Stadium.
However, in this case, Arteta explained how the situation was exacerbated by the circumstances where he was stuck in his vehicle, unable to leave.
“There are times and contexts that are not the case and then we need someone to protect us as well, because otherwise we will be exposed,” he added.
“And you can’t move out of your car, and you don’t feel very comfortable in it. But that’s it. I’ll take it on the chin.”
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