Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta gave fans a moment to laugh about after his team’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chelsea.
During a post-match interview, Arteta pulled a playful stunt, dashing away when asked about Bukayo Saka’s potential return from injury.
The lighthearted moment came just a week after he stormed out of an interview following a frustrating draw against Manchester United.
A Much-Needed Win
The Gunners bounced back in style, with Mikel Merino’s first-half header proving to be the match-winner at the Emirates.
The victory helped Arsenal cut Liverpool’s lead at the top of the table to 12 points, keeping their title hopes alive.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Arteta praised his squad’s efforts, emphasizing that they “deserved” the win against Chelsea.
He highlighted how his team created several chances while keeping Chelsea’s attacking threats at bay.
The Saka Question—and Arteta’s Exit
During the interview, a reporter pressed Arteta on Bukayo Saka’s potential return after the international break.
Instead of giving a straight answer, the Spaniard decided to have a little fun—he suddenly sprinted out of the frame as if avoiding the question.
But moments later, he returned with a grin, saying, “Yeah, he’s got every chance [of returning].”
A Contrast to Last Week’s Frustration
Arteta’s playful escape was a stark contrast to his reaction after Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United the week before.
In that post-match interview, he had been visibly frustrated and even cut off the interviewer at times.
When asked about Arsenal’s fading title hopes, Arteta refused to engage, simply saying, “No, thank you,” before walking off abruptly.
Looking Ahead
Despite the tension from last week, Arsenal’s latest victory has provided a much-needed morale boost.
Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly their defensive solidity and attacking intent.
He even praised Chelsea, calling them “the best attacking team in the league,” making Arsenal’s clean sheet even more impressive.
With momentum back on their side, the Gunners will be hoping to build on this win as they continue their push for the title.
And who knows? Maybe Arteta will have more surprises up his sleeve in future interviews.