Mikel Arteta recently spoke about his touchline behavior and how he believes his ban against Aston Villa in December may have prompted a change in his behavior. The Arsenal manager was forced to watch from the stands after receiving multiple yellow cards earlier in the season. He confessed that the experience of being banned was unpleasant and that he hopes to avoid a similar situation in the future.
At the beginning of the season, referees were instructed by Howard Webb to crack down on dissent and aggressive behavior on the touchline. This crackdown has led to a number of managers, including Arteta, receiving punishments for their conduct. Arteta admitted that the rule was initially very aggressive, with warnings of yellow cards being issued for minor infractions. However, he noted that there has been more understanding between managers and officials as the season has progressed.
Despite the recent focus on touchline behavior, Arteta and Arsenal are currently facing challenges on the field as well. With their Champions League hopes hanging in the balance after a draw with Bayern Munich, Arsenal must also contend with Villa in an upcoming league match. Arteta emphasized that the pressure is simply a motivation for the team, who are excited about their current performance and the challenges that lie ahead.
As Arteta reflects on his ban and the changes in his touchline demeanor, it is evident that he has learned from the experience and is working towards maintaining a calmer attitude in future games. This introspection and willingness to adapt are crucial for a manager leading a top-flight team like Arsenal. With the right approach, Arteta can continue to grow and lead his team to further success on and off the pitch.