Arsenal Decline Extra Security for Diego Simeone Ahead of Champions League Clash
admin 
Arsenal have turned down requests to provide additional security for Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone ahead of their Champions League tie at the Emirates Stadium.
The decision follows a heated incident at Anfield last month, where Simeone was involved in an altercation with a Liverpool fan after his side lost 3–2 in stoppage time. The confrontation led to a one-match ban from UEFA, which he served during Atletico’s 5–1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt. Now, as Simeone prepares to return to the touchline, Arsenal remain confident that no similar scenes will occur.
Why did Arsenal refuse to offer more security?
According to The Sun, Arsenal believe there is no need for additional security measures. Unlike Anfield, the Emirates Stadium’s away dugout is positioned further from the home supporters, reducing the likelihood of direct confrontation. The club will rely on its regular stewarding team to manage any potential disruptions.
After the Liverpool incident, Simeone expressed regret but emphasized that his emotions got the better of him. “It’s not easy to be in the position we are in and receive insults for the whole game. I saw it from far away after the third goal. I saw the third goal go in and I turned, the insults continued, and well, I’m a person,” he told The Mirror.
What did Mikel Arteta say about Simeone?
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Simeone’s longevity and leadership, calling his achievements remarkable. “I think the identity that he has created to the club, to the team, the spirit, I think they are very simple and clear to identify and that’s because the manager is very much them. And that’s extremely difficult to achieve for a short period of time and to do it for 14 years, I think he’s been there now, he’s done something incredible so yeah, a pleasure to meet him,” Arteta said via Arsenal’s website.
The Gunners head into the fixture unbeaten this season after wins against Athletic Bilbao and Olympiacos, while Atletico have also maintained strong form in La Liga. In a related incident, Atletico filed a complaint after not getting hot water at the Emirates following a training session, an issue Arsenal later apologized for and resolved.
By Yockshard Enyendi
