Arteta Demands Better Security After Fan Confrontation: 'This Cannot Go On'

Mikel Arteta has demanded enhanced security measures at Arsenal following a widely-shared video showing him being repeatedly hassled by a fan outside the Emirates Stadium.

The incident, which unfolded after Sunday's FA Cup win against Wigan Athletic, saw a supporter pursue Arteta for nearly two minutes requesting he sign an Arsenal shirt for his son. Though some initially criticised the manager's refusal, many observers sided with the Gunners boss, highlighting the supporter's refusal to accept the obvious brush-off.

Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Arteta acknowledged his usual willingness to engage with supporters but drew a firm line around certain circumstances.

"I always try to be very respectful," he explained. "I love to sign and photograph as much as we can. I think it's part of our role, but there are certain things in terms of security that we have to respect.

"Especially with certain people, they are doing it that they are not doing it for the right reasons. And we have other examples…

"The last time my wife was there, and what was in the media was totally wrong and unfair, but that's it. I prefer to talk about incredible other people that come around generally because they want to have that interaction.

"I think everybody knows me, how happy I am to do that, but there are moments and contexts that are not the case."

The Spanish manager revealed he felt genuinely uncomfortable during the exchange, with his wife present and his child in the vehicle. He stressed that departing the stadium with family ought to be a straightforward affair, not an ordeal requiring defensive manoeuvres.

"We need somebody there to protect us as well, because if not, we will get exposed and you don't feel very comfortable there," Arteta stated. "I take it on the chin."

When pressed on whether the club's security protocols require revision, Arteta was unequivocal: "Hopefully it will change, because it cannot continue like this."