Mikel Arteta felt 'exposed' after awkward car incident with Arsenal supporter | OneFootball

Gunners boss was put in a difficult position after FA Cup win

Uncomfortable: Mikel Arteta

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Mikel Arteta admitted he felt "exposed" after an uncomfortable recent interaction with an Arsenal fan while in his car.

Arteta was driving in his car with his family but traffic meant he was largely stationary, as the fan stood by his window for more than two minutes and urged the Arsenal manager to offer his signature.

The security guidance for Arsenal players and coaches is that they do not roll down their windows when driving away from the Emirates Stadium.

Fans gather to try and get autographs in that area but the cars emerge onto a main road. Engagement at that point with the supporters would attract further crowds and add to traffic problems.

Responding to that clip after the Wigan match, Arteta suggested certain fans asking for autographs are "not doing it for the right reasons".

"I always try to be very respectful," Arteta said.

"I love to sign and photograph as much as we can. I think it's part of our role.

"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.

“I think everybody knows me, how happy I am to do that. But there are moments and context that is not the case."

Arsenal reviewed the security situation a few years ago and there are no plans for any changes to be made to protocols after the latest incident.

Despite that, Arteta said he was uncomfortable with situations like the one on Sunday, when he was unable to drive away and had fans gathering by his car.

"We need somebody there to protect us as well because if not, we will get exposed and you cannot move from your car," Arteta continued.

"You don't feel very comfortable there. But that's it. I take it on the chin."