Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has acknowledged that his touchline behavior has let the club down in previous matches. The 41-year-old is known for his animated presence during games and has faced criticism for aggressively remonstrating with officials on multiple occasions. However, Arteta has recently made a “conscious effort” to improve his demeanor and avoid getting sent off.
Arteta admits that he is changing his approach on the touchline. He wants to avoid displaying excessive agitation that could negatively impact the club’s image. Recognizing the significance of representing the club, Arteta acknowledges that certain heated decisions can be difficult to handle without getting carried away. His primary goal is to defend the players and the club, ensuring they are the best and most competitive they can be.
Arteta emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus during matches. While he expects his players to be fully engaged and passionate about each ball, he also understands the need for emotional control. Emotional behavior that disrupts clarity can hinder his ability to analyze the game effectively, leading to poor decisions. Arteta demands full commitment from his players, and he believes that controlling emotions is an essential part of their development.
In comparing disciplinary actions, Arteta suggests that managerial punishments should mirror those of the players. Currently, managers receive three yellow cards before facing suspension, whereas players are suspended after accumulating five yellow cards. Arteta argues that managers are present throughout every minute of every game, and their level of accountability should align with that of the players. To him, it seems illogical that managers are allowed more warnings than the players they oversee.
This season, the Premier League introduced a new technical area code of conduct. One significant change is the restriction on the number of coaching representatives allowed to stand beside the pitch at any given time. Fulham boss Marco Silva and Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola have already faced suspensions after receiving three yellow cards each. Arteta, who has received two bookings so far this season (against Fulham and Chelsea), recognizes the importance of adhering to the code of conduct and exemplifying appropriate touchline behavior.
Above all, Arteta’s determination lies in driving his team to success. He is constantly striving to ensure that Arsenal is the best and most competitive it can be. Arteta’s focus is not on himself; instead, he prioritizes the players and the club. His intense emotions during matches reflect his dedication and desire to defend the team. However, he also understands the need to control his behavior and not let it become a distraction from the game.
Mikel Arteta’s touchline behavior has evolved over time. He acknowledges his past mistakes and has actively made efforts to improve his conduct. Recognizing the significance of representing Arsenal, Arteta aims to avoid getting sent off and damaging the club’s image. He understands the importance of focusing on the game, demanding emotional control from his players and himself. Arteta also believes that managerial punishments should be consistent with player suspensions to ensure fair accountability. With the Premier League’s new code of conduct in place, Arteta recognizes its importance and strives to adhere to the guidelines. His ultimate drive is to make Arsenal the best it can be, putting the players and the club above personal considerations.
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