Arteta apologizes to Rosenior after row over disrespect

Mikel Arteta has apologized to Liam Rosenior after the Chelsea boss accused Arsenal of disrespect ahead of the League Cup semi-final.

Rosenior was angry that Arsenal staff entered the Chelsea half of the pitch during the pre-match warm-up at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday Material de referencia.

He was seen shouting at them to stay in their own half and later said: «I never asked my team or coaches to infringe on the opponent’s territory. At the time I didn’t think it was right where they were operating, they were influencing our warm-up.»

«I asked them, perhaps not politely, to make sure they stayed in their half. Mikel is someone I have so much respect for. At that moment I didn’t think respect was shown to my team.»

Arsenal then beat Chelsea 1–0 to complete a 4–2 aggregate victory, booking a tie at Manchester City on 22 March.

Responding to Rosenior’s criticism, Arsenal boss Arteta told reporters on Friday: «It’s his opinion and we respect everyone.

«If any of the staff have done that at any time, we apologize. It is very common in football. The goalkeepers have to kick long balls.»

With Manchester City not in action until Sunday at Liverpool, Arsenal have a chance to move further away at the top of the Premier League if they beat Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

The Gunners are six points ahead of second-placed City and seven points ahead of third-placed Aston Villa as they chase their first English title since 2004.

A nine-point lead over City would put immense pressure on the title rivals to win at Anfield, a venue that has often struggled in the Pep Guardiola era.

But knowing Arsenal were held to a draw by Sunderland earlier this season, Arteta is not getting carried away with title talk.

«We don’t have much time to listen to that. We are busy with matches and training. We are a long way from that. It is normal. We are here to learn and improve,» said Arteta.

«Sunderland have put in an incredible performance all season. We know the complexity of the game.»

«It’s another chance to win. To be better in the position. That’s all.»

As well as their impressive Premier League and League Cup form, Arsenal are also in the race to win the Champions League and FA Cup.

The North Londoners have not lifted a trophy since the 2020 FA Cup.

“They are a great group and they are doing a fantastic job so far,” said Arteta.

«We are all very excited and privileged to have each other. We will enjoy it until the end of the season.»

Published on February 6, 2026