In a move that has stunned both fans and the footballing world, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reportedly hired a team of professional pickpockets during a dinner with his players. The astonishing revelation, reported by The Athletic, highlights Arteta’s unconventional approach to coaching and his commitment to instilling discipline and alertness in his squad.
A Surprising Dinner Experience
According to the report, Arteta organized a team dinner for his Arsenal players, which seemed like a routine team-building event. However, the manager had an unexpected twist in store. While the players were enjoying their meal, a team of professional pickpockets discreetly moved around the tables, lifting phones, wallets, and other important items from the unsuspecting players.
Arteta’s Strategy Behind the Stunt
After the meal, Arteta asked the players to empty their pockets, revealing that several of them were missing key belongings. The purpose of this exercise? To teach the squad a crucial lesson about the importance of being alert and prepared at all times. Arteta wanted his players to understand that complacency, even in the most familiar and comfortable settings, can have serious consequences. The stunt was designed to reinforce the idea that in football, as in life, they must always be ready to react to unexpected challenges.
The Reaction from Arsenal Players
The players were reportedly shocked when they discovered their missing items, but the lesson quickly became clear. By simulating a real-world situation where they were caught off guard, Arteta aimed to drive home the importance of vigilance, both on and off the pitch. The unique method reflects Arteta’s dedication to developing not just the physical and tactical aspects of his team, but also their mental sharpness and readiness
Mikel Arteta’s decision to hire professional pickpockets as part of a team-building exercise is a bold and innovative approach to management. It underscores his belief that success in football requires more than just technical skill—it demands constant awareness and the ability to adapt to the unexpected. While the method may have surprised his players, the lesson is likely to resonate with them long after the dinner is over. This unconventional tactic is just one example of Arteta’s commitment to shaping a mentally tough and resilient Arsenal squad.