Mikel Arteta Is Not Affected By Erling Haaland's Satire

Mikel Arteta did not take Erling Haaland's satire seriously (Instagram/@arsenal).

JAKARTA - Mikel Arteta said he did not take Erling Haaland's satire seriously, which said he was "main humble".

He insisted on maintaining a positive relationship with Pep Guardiola despite the rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester City getting hotter.

The Gunners will host Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, January 2, 2025, early morning WIB, more than four months after the previous match ended with a score of 2-2 at Etihad.

At that time, a angry confrontation broke out when the final whistle sounded, in which Haaland told Arteta to remain humble before exchanging words with Gabriel Jesus.

When asked to reflect on what Haaland said at that time, Arteta did not want to take it seriously.

"I don't take anything seriously. What happens on the pitch for me and since I became a player, stay there."

"There were full of emotions and various things. I put it aside and went forward," Arteta said at a press conference on Friday, January 31, 2025.

Arsenal's recovery to the top of the game under Arteta has seen them compete with Manchester City for the Premier League title in the last two seasons.

In September 2024, the duo of The Citizens, John Stones and Bernardo Silva, accused Arsenal of wasting time and dirty playing with 10 players to try to defend their lead in the second half.

When pressed for alleged use of "black science" by Arsenal, Arteta appeared to intend to counterattack Manchester City by referring to his three years as coach under Guardiola.

"I was there, I had all the information. So, I know," said the Spaniard.

Guardiola then asked Arteta to clarify his comments, leading to allegations that their long-standing friendship had been broken.

However, Arteta also denied the rift, just like Guardiola's confirmation.

"If (the pandemic), we will not talk on the phone, talk to each other, send messages to each other, and want to give the best (for each other). That will not happen," he said.

Meanwhile, Arteta added that David Raya was in doubt for Sunday's match as he struggled with a muscle injury.

The coach also could not ease concerns among supporters that the transfer deadline on Monday, February 3, 2025, might pass without recruiting.

The Gunners' opening offer for striker total Watkins has been rejected by Aston Villa earlier this week.

They are currently assessing whether to return with a better offer or turn their attention to other players.

"We're trying everything we can, but I don't want to give certainty or not."

"I don't know. It doesn't just depend on us. Our intentions are clear, but it may be influenced by three parties."

"I firmly believe in the work the club is doing and exploring every opportunity we believe could have an impact on the team."

"It must have happened. If we can agree to something, we will. Otherwise, we will not," said Arteta.