Mikel Arteta Calls for Change: Eliminating Hatred in Football

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a strong call for the elimination of hatred within football, emphasizing its detrimental impact on both the sport and individuals involved. Arteta’s impassioned plea follows recent incidents of abuse directed at referee Michael Oliver, whose home was placed under police guard after he penalized Myles Lewis-Skelly in a match against Wolves.

The Incident Involving Michael Oliver

During the match, Oliver issued a red card to Lewis-Skelly after the player tackled Matt Doherty. The decision was upheld by the video assistant referee, Darren England. Despite the evidence presented to the Football Association, Arsenal appealed and overturned the red card within hours of the review.

The appeal decision came as Lewis-Skelly was aboard the team’s flight to their final game of the Champions League first phase against Girona. An independent commission subsequently upheld the claim of wrongful dismissal, confirming the overturning of the red card.

Mikel Arteta’s Message

Arteta highlighted the serious consequences of such behavior, stating that it negatively impacts everyone involved in football. The Professional Game Match Officials Limited characterized the threats directed at Oliver and his family as “abhorrent.”

Arteta said, “Every time I talk about this topic, it’s the same, regardless of whether it’s a player, a coach, or a referee. We have to work harder to eradicate that part of the game that brings nothing but bad stuff, bad taste, and makes people’s lives more difficult.”

His message was unequivocal: “For everyone in football. It should not be permitted. We don’t want it, we don’t need it, it can only damage our sport, so let’s get it out.”

The Need for a Healthier Environment

The Arsenal manager emphasized the importance of creating a healthier and more positive environment within football. He noted that while the sport focuses on evolving rules and regulations, addressing the social aspects of the game is equally crucial.

Arteta continued, “We need to evolve not just on the pitch but also in how we treat each other. We must reward those who contribute positively and provide opportunities for individuals to learn from their mistakes.”

He stressed, “We shouldn’t be here with this hatred, these things we see, because they affect everyone and in the end, they take away the joy of this sport, the reason for it — which is to enjoy ourselves, have good moments.”

Arteta advocated for stronger measures to tackle this issue, asking, “Why haven’t we done it [with this]? We are all talking about it, but no one seems to be moving strongly enough and bringing people with them to get that out of the game, because it’s just unacceptable.”

The Lewis-Skelly Decision

The overturning of Lewis-Skelly’s red card was a relief for both the player and the club. Arteta mentioned that Lewis-Skelly was asleep on the flight when they first learned of the decision. The Arsenal manager expressed satisfaction with the rapid resolution, noting, “It’s so good to know today, that’s helpful, so thank you.”

The decision affected not only the upcoming match against Girona but also future fixtures, providing the team with more certainty and additional playing options.

The Call for Change

Mikel Arteta’s call for change is a significant step towards fostering a more respectful and inclusive environment in football. While recent incidents of abuse against referees and officials highlight the necessity of this change, a collective effort from players, coaches, clubs, and fans is essential.

Arteta’s message resonates with many in the football community, who are increasingly concerned about the toxic culture surrounding the sport. By working together, the football world can create a space that celebrates the beauty of the game and values the contributions of all its participants.

Conclusion

Mikel Arteta’s plea for eradicating hatred in football highlights the importance of fostering a respectful and inclusive environment. By addressing these issues, the football community can ensure that the sport remains enjoyable and safe for all participants.

As fans, players, and officials, we all have a role to play in creating a better future for football. Let’s work together to make the changes needed to protect and nurture the beauty of the game.

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