Emmanuel Petit criticises Arteta’s touchline behaviour

April 18, 2026 Oliver Obel

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has raised concerns about Mikel Arteta’s touchline demeanor as the club approaches a potentially decisive Premier League clash with Manchester City.

According to Premier League standings, Arsenal sit six points clear at the top, although Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand that could cut the gap to three. The two teams meet on April 19 at the Etihad Stadium in a match that could significantly influence the direction of the title race.

A positive result for Arsenal would strengthen their position with only a handful of fixtures remaining. However, defeat would draw City level on points, intensifying the pressure during the final stretch of the campaign.

Recent performances have done little to ease nerves around the Emirates. A 2–1 defeat at home to Bournemouth exposed signs of tension, while a goalless draw against Sporting CP in Europe was enough to secure progression to the Champions League semi-finals with a 1–0 aggregate win, where they will face Atletico Madrid.

Despite remaining in control of their domestic fate, some former players believe momentum may be shifting. Petit, speaking to Andy’s Bet Club, pointed specifically to Arteta’s behavior on the sidelines.

"If they don't win the title from here, Arsenal players will be traumatised forever," he said.

"I don't really like the temperament of Mikel Arteta on the bench sometimes. His body language — I don’t like it. It's the same thing I've seen with Unai Emery at times. He looks nervous, very tense."

Petit acknowledged the emotional weight of competing for major honors but suggested that experience plays a crucial role at this stage of a title race.

"I can understand that because when you are close to being in a Champions League semi-final, it's so important," he added.

"The first trophy is the most important because when you open the door, you know you can open the door."

Arsenal’s remaining schedule includes matches against Newcastle and Fulham, followed by a trip to West Ham. They then host Burnley before ending the season away at Crystal Palace, a run of fixtures that will ultimately determine whether they can convert their current advantage into a long-awaited league title.

Sources: Andy’s Bet Club, Premier League data

Read also: What is Fantasy Premier League?