Mikel Arteta apologises after Liam Rosenior accuses Arsenal of 'disrespect' in warm-up

Arsenal secured their place at Wembley with a 1-0 win on the night, completing a 4-2 aggregate triumph. However, footage emerged of Rosenior telling Arsenal staff, "That's your half – that's your ******* half. ******* stay there," as they prepared on the pitch. Rosenior later explained, "I asked them, maybe not politely, to make sure they stay in their half. I'm not here to have mind games, it's just what I think is right and respectful. There's certain etiquette in football. In that moment I didn't think that respect was shown to my team."

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Arteta acknowledged Rosenior's feelings but stressed there was no ill intent from Arsenal. "It's his opinion and obviously we respect everybody," he said. "At any point, if one of the staff members went through that, we apologise and that's it. It's very common in football, especially with the keepers because they have to kick long balls and all that."

Asked if psychological games were at play, Arteta said, "I have no idea but I don't think that was intentional. I will engage with the things that in my opinion are relevant to the team and what is best for the team and the club, that's for sure."

The Arsenal boss also reflected on the pressures of managing in the spotlight. "Sometimes it's difficult because you cannot be aware constantly about everything and we are human beings, we react to things, so it's normal," he said. "I try to give the right example and if that's the intention, that's OK."

Looking ahead, Arsenal host Sunderland on Saturday, aiming to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League. "Every opponent is different and bring very difficult challenges and we need to face them," Arteta said. "We have to continue to play with our hunger and commitment every single game. Because if we do that, we have a big chance to win our games."

Team updates were positive, with Ødegaard set to return "in a matter of days" after a minor muscular problem, while Bukayo Saka's hip issue is "much better and hopefully very soon he will be back with us." Jurriën Timber is also available despite missing a recent training session.

With the Carabao Cup behind them, Arteta remains focused on Arsenal's long-term ambitions. "Before the pre-season had started, we started to prepare everything with the intention to be where we are, and make sure the players are very convinced that we are going to achieve it," he said. Arsenal, chasing their first league title in 22 years, are now in a strong position with 13 matches remaining.