JAKARTA - Mikel Arteta has apologized to Chelsea after Liam Rosenior accused the north London team of disrespect during the warm-up before the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 WIB.
Arsenal secured a final spot at Wembley with a 1-0 win on the day - and a 4-2 aggregate victory - but footage later emerged which appeared to show Chelsea manager Rosenior telling his staff to stay on their half of the pitch as the teams made final preparations at the Emirates Stadium.
Rosenior then explained that Arsenal disrupted his team's warm-up. Although he admitted that he had no problem with anyone at Arsenal or Mikel Arteta, at that time he thought that no respect was shown to Chelsea.
Speaking on Friday, February 6, 2026, local time, Arteta discussed the situation.
"I don't know, that's his opinion and obviously we respect everyone. If one of the staff members experiences that, we will apologize and that's it."
"It's very common in football, especially with goalkeepers because they have to kick long balls and so on. So, there's nothing to comment on," Arteta said.
Arteta further dismissed the notion of any psychological tricks being used before the game.
"I don't know, but I think it was unintentional. I will discuss things that I think are relevant to the team as well as what is best for the team and the club, that's for sure," said the Spanish coach.
Meanwhile, the Gunners will face Sunderland at home on Saturday, February 7, 2026, with the aim of being nine points ahead at the top of the table. They were held to a 2-2 draw in the previous match in November 2025.
"As always, we have tried to prepare ourselves every weekend. Each opponent is different and presents a very difficult challenge."
"We need to deal with it and we have been doing that for the last few months. That's what we have to continue to do, playing with passion and commitment in every game."
"If we do that, we have a great chance to win the game," Arteta said.
Arteta said Martin Odegaard would return in a few days after suffering a minor muscle problem at home to Leeds United last weekend, but Jurrien Timber is ready.
Bukayo Saka's hip problem is much better and hopefully he will soon return to the team.
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