Mikel Arteta explains why he did not sign autograph for waiting Arsenal fan in viral video

Mikel Arteta refused to wind down his car window when asked by a supporter to sign a shirt after the win over Wigan Athletic

Mikel Arteta says he felt “exposed” after being persistently asked by an Arsenal fan for an autograph while he was with his wife.

Arteta was leaving the Emirates Stadium on Sunday after Arsenal’s win over Wigan Athletic in his car with his family in an area where fans regularly spot high-profile figures from the club making their way home.

The manager followed protocol from club security, who encourage players and coaches not to roll down their windows when approached by supporters. Measures that were reviewed at Arsenal as recently as three years ago.

Yet Arteta, despite explaining a desire to be respectful, raised concerns over the incident when pressed on it.

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“I always try to be very respectful. I love to sign and photograph as much as I can. I think it’s part of our role,” the Spaniard said.

“But there are certain things in terms of security that we have to respect. And especially when certain people are doing it, they are not doing it for the right reasons.

“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 genuinely because they want to have that interaction. And I think everybody knows me, how happy I am to do that.”

Arteta took the time after the game against Brentford before getting on the squad coach following the 1-1 draw at the Gtech Community Stadium.

However, in this case, Arteta explained how the incident was made worse by the environment of being in his car, unable to move.

“But there are moments and context that is not the case. And then we need somebody there to protect us as well, because if not, we will get exposed, and you cannot move from your car, and you don’t feel very comfortable there. But that’s it. I take it in the chin.”

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