Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has taken aim at Arsenal's players and staff for their wild celebrations after Chelsea's Noni Madueke missed a crucial penalty in their recent Premier League clash.
The ex-England international, speaking on his podcast, branded the Gunners' reaction as "disrespectful" and "over the top", particularly singling out manager Mikel Arteta for his animated response.
Penalty Drama Sparks Controversy
The incident occurred during a tense London derby when Madueke stepped up to take a late spot-kick that could have changed the game's outcome. After his effort went wide, Arsenal's bench erupted in celebration, with Arteta sprinting down the touchline in jubilation.
"I get the emotion of the game," Ferdinand said, "but there's a line. Seeing a manager sprinting 20 yards down the touchline because someone missed a penalty? That's too much."
Ferdinand's Stance on Respect
The pundit emphasised the importance of maintaining respect between opponents, suggesting Arsenal's reaction crossed into unsporting behaviour. "You can be happy, but when it becomes about someone else's misfortune, that's different," he added.
This isn't the first time Arteta's passionate touchline antics have drawn attention, but Ferdinand believes this instance went beyond acceptable limits in top-flight football.
