Arteta shrugs off Rayan Cherki antics and calls for respect

Mikel Arteta has dismissed concerns over Rayan Cherki’s showboating during the Carabao Cup final, insisting the Manchester City forward was well within his rights to express himself on the pitch.

The French international of Algerian descent drew visible frustration from Arsenal players and supporters during City’s victory at Wembley, with his flamboyant touches and confident style adding fuel to an already intense contest.

However, speaking ahead of Arsenal’s return fixture against Manchester City, Arteta made clear he saw no wrongdoing in the Frenchman’s behaviour.

“No, I think every player has his way to express it and you have to respect that,” Arteta said. “It’s part of football, you are allowed to do it. You can react in the manner that you want but I think the player has to be respected because he’s entitled to do those things.”

The Arsenal manager’s measured response reflects a broader tolerance for individuality in the modern game, even when it comes at the expense of opponents’ emotions. Cherki’s display may have irritated Arsenal’s ranks, but Arteta’s stance suggests he values creative freedom over rigid conformity.

Attention also turned to Arteta’s own touchline and on-field interactions, particularly a heated exchange last season involving Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker was at the centre of a viral moment in which Arteta appeared to urge humility, a comment that sparked widespread debate.

Yet Arteta was quick to play down the significance of that incident, reiterating that such exchanges are commonplace within the competitive environment of elite football.

“If I have to talk about all the things that have been said on the pitch, I think we’ll have some big meetings,” he said.

When pressed further on whether the moment was unusual, Arteta remained relaxed, suggesting that far more is said on the pitch than is ever heard publicly.

“Don’t worry. The mics are coming in football, I don’t know when. That’s one of the nicest things that you can get told.”