Former Manchester United captain and football pundit Roy Keane has never been one to mince his words, and he didn’t hold back when sharing his thoughts on Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. In a recent appearance on The Overlap, Keane expressed his reservations about some of Arteta’s managerial antics, particularly in moments of celebration.
While acknowledging that Arteta has been doing a commendable job at Arsenal, Keane made it clear that there are aspects of the Spanish coach’s behavior that he finds excessive. He alluded to what he perceives as overenthusiastic celebrations by Arteta and his staff, which he believes sometimes go too far.
“Arteta does a lot of things I don’t like,” Keane began, hinting at his critique of the Arsenal manager’s actions on the touchline. “But obviously, he’s doing a good job there.” Keane’s comment reflects his recognition of Arteta’s positive impact on the club, as the Gunners have undergone a period of transition and improvement under his management.
However, Keane’s primary concern seems to be the manner in which celebrations unfold during matches. He pointed out moments when the manager and his extensive staff engage in exuberant celebrations, even during early stages of the game.
“I think the manager can [celebrate], but when there are 28 staff hugging each other, the bus driver and the chef are joining. You’re like, ‘hold on a second, it’s 2-1,'” Keane remarked.
Keane’s comments bring attention to the evolving role of the modern football manager, who often has a substantial backroom staff and support network. The passionate celebrations and unity among staff can be seen as a reflection of the camaraderie and teamwork within the club.
Arteta’s enthusiasm and camaraderie with his coaching staff are not unique to Arsenal, as many modern managers are known for their touchline passion and shared celebrations with their teams. These moments can serve as morale boosters and help foster a strong team spirit.
Critiques from seasoned football figures like Keane highlight the diverse perspectives within the sport. While some appreciate the energetic displays on the sidelines, others, like Keane, may prefer a more restrained approach. Ultimately, each manager brings their own style and personality to the role.
Despite the differences in opinion, one thing is clear: Mikel Arteta’s impact on Arsenal is undeniable. Under his guidance, the club has made strides in terms of performance and development. The Gunners’ style of play has evolved, and they have demonstrated an ability to compete with some of the Premier League’s top teams.
As the Premier League season unfolds, football fans can expect continued scrutiny and analysis from pundits like Roy Keane, whose insights provide valuable perspectives on the game and those who shape it. Arteta, like other managers, will likely continue to celebrate in his own way, and it remains to be seen how Arsenal’s fortunes will unfold under his leadership in the coming seasons.
