Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has brushed aside criticism of his team's celebrations following their historic Champions League semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid. The Gunners secured their place in the final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 30 in Budapest after a 2-1 aggregate win, prompting jubilant scenes on the Emirates Stadium pitch.
The celebrations drew scrutiny, notably from former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, who suggested on Amazon Prime that the team was over-celebrating a semi-final win. "They deserve to be in this position, but they haven't won it yet," Rooney commented. "The celebrations are a little bit too much. Celebrate when you win."
When confronted with the so-called 'celebration police' during his Friday press conference, Arteta responded with a laugh. He stated he was unaware of the specific criticism but emphasized that all opinions deserve respect before adding he would place them "where they belong."
Despite the monumental achievement of reaching the club's first Champions League final since 2006, Arteta insisted his focus has immediately shifted to domestic matters. Arsenal's next fixture is a crucial Premier League encounter against West Ham on Sunday, live on Sky Sports, as they continue their pursuit of the league title.
"We talked immediately after the game that this is great, what a moment, we earned it, and we will have time to prepare and get ready for that final," Arteta explained. He acknowledged being in a high emotional state after the Atletico match but stressed that his concentration, focus, and energy are now directed toward the West Ham fixture.
The Arsenal boss also revealed a touch of sportsmanship from a rival. He disclosed that Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, his former mentor, sent a congratulatory message after Arsenal's progression. Arteta noted that other influential figures in his career, including Mauricio Pochettino and David Moyes, also reached out, expressing gratitude for their roles in his development.
Arteta's message is clear: while the Champions League final is a monumental occasion, the immediate priority is maintaining the high standards shown throughout the season in the Premier League. "We are closer and closer, and everything that we do now is going to matter as to whether we win it or not," he concluded, looking ahead to the West Ham match.
Based on reporting from SkySports | News.
