The Gunners boss couldn't bear to watch the decisive match, choosing backyard BBQ over nail-biting drama.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed the emotional moment he discovered his team had clinched the Premier League title - not from watching the match, but from his tearful son while hosting a garden barbecue. The Spanish tactician admits he was too nervous to witness the crucial fixture that would determine Arsenal's championship fate.
Instead of being glued to his television screen like millions of football fans worldwide, Arteta chose to distract himself by firing up the grill and entertaining family. The decision paid off when his young son came running with tears of joy, delivering the life-changing news that Arsenal had secured their first Premier League crown in nearly two decades.
This title triumph represents a massive achievement for Arsenal's diverse squad, which features several players with African heritage who have been instrumental in the club's success. The Gunners' championship run has captivated fans across the continent, particularly in nations like Ghana, Nigeria, and Egypt, where Arsenal enjoys massive support.
Arteta's unconventional celebration method shows the human side of elite football management, where the pressure can be overwhelming even for seasoned professionals. His ability to step away from the intensity while trusting his players to deliver demonstrates the confidence he has built in his squad over recent seasons.