Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says he is “happy” to interact with fans but there are times when he has felt “exposed” and “not very comfortable”.
A video recorded after the Gunners’ FA Cup win over Wigan on Sunday showed a man repeatedly asking for Arteta’s autograph as he and his wife waited in traffic outside Emirates Stadium.
Arteta refused to open his window and several more people crowded round the vehicle. They then stepped back while the man followed the vehicle as it crept forward, saying he wanted Arteta to sign an Arsenal jersey for his son.
“I always try to be very respectful,” said Arteta. “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. Especially when certain people are doing it, they are not doing it for the right reasons.”
Arteta and his wife were also videoed while sat in traffic following a Champions League game in October,, external with his wife described as being “frustrated” and “annoyed” as someone took a selfie next to the vehicle.
“The last time my wife was there, what was in the media was totally wrong and unfair,” Arteta added.
“I prefer to talk about the incredible other people that come around genuinely, because they want to have that interaction, and I think everybody who knows me, [knows] how happy I am to do that.
“But there are moments and context when that is not the case. And then we need somebody there to protect us as well because, if not, we will get exposed, you cannot move from your car and you don’t feel very comfortable there.”
It is understood that as part of Arsenal’s security guidance, the manager, players and coaches are advised not to roll their vehicle windows down when driving.