Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has apologised to Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior after an on-pitch incident during the warm-up ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at the Emirates Stadium.
The situation unfolded before kick-off when Sky Sports cameras captured an angry exchange between Rosenior and Arsenal staff. The Chelsea boss accused Arsenal players of encroaching into Chelsea’s half during the warm-up, claiming it crossed an unwritten line of football etiquette.
Speaking after the match, Liam Rosenior made his feelings clear, stressing that the issue was about respect rather than personal conflict.
“There’s certain etiquette in football,” Rosenior said.
“I don’t have an issue with anyone at Arsenal. It was just in that moment I didn’t think that respect was shown to my team.”
Arsenal Edge Chelsea to Reach Carabao Cup Final
Despite the pre-match tension, Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory on the night, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Kai Havertz. The result sealed a 4-2 aggregate win, sending the Gunners into the Carabao Cup final.
Ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League clash with Sunderland, Arteta addressed Rosenior’s comments and issued an apology during his press conference.
“I don’t know, it’s his opinion and we respect everybody,” Arteta said.
“At any point, if one of the staff members did that, we apologise.”
Arteta also explained that the situation may have been misunderstood, suggesting it was a common training routine rather than intentional disrespect.
“It’s very common in football. With the keepers they need to kick long balls,” he added.
Positive Arsenal Injury Update Ahead of Sunderland Clash
Arteta also delivered encouraging injury news for Arsenal fans. Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard are both closing in on a return, while Jurrien Timber is fully available for the weekend.
“Bukayo Saka, his hip is much better, and hopefully very soon he will be back with us,” Arteta said.
“Martin getting better. It’s a matter of days for him. Jurrien is fine. He’s good for the weekend.”
However, teenage prospect Max Dowman remains sidelined with an ankle injury and is still a few weeks away from returning to training.
