Arsenal set-piece coach Nicolas Jover warned squad could turn on 'most annoying man in football' if he does not 'take a step back' from the spotlight under Mikel Arteta

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Gunners have become one of the Premier League’s most dangerous teams in set-piece situations, with Jover’s strategies playing a key role in their title challenge. While his contributions have earned widespread acclaim, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has strongly criticized Jover’s touchline behaviour and urged for more restraint.

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WHAT NEVILLE SAID

Speaking on the latest episode of Stick to Football, Neville voiced his displeasure with Jover's animated touchline presence during Arsenal's recent FA Cup clash with Manchester United.

"I called him the most annoying man in football. Do you know something? I'm cementing my position, I'm doubling down," he said.

"It's offending me every week. I'm going to say this really calmly, I think he's overreaching his importance. If a goalkeeper makes a good save, I don't see the goalkeeping coach on the edge of the touchline. I don't see the other coaches going up and getting the glory for it. The manager is at the front, he can't communicate from 50 yards away to players who know what they're doing. I think he's overreaching his importance, I genuinely believe that.

"I see goalkeeper coaches and brilliant coaches who work on other aspects of the game, I don't see them pointing to themselves and overreaching their importance. That's how I feel. I get he's important and he's doing a great job but I do genuinely think he needs to sit back a little bit. I think the players will start to look at him as well and think, 'hang on a minute, come on'."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher aligned with Neville’s sentiments, expressing similar concerns about Jover’s sideline conduct.

"I can't disagree with it! I thought it was a bit harsh but I can't really disagree," he said.

However, Arsenal legend Ian Wright was quick to defend Jover, disagreeing with Neville’s harsh assessment.

"You're being very, very harsh Gary," he argued.

Mikel Arteta Arsenal 2024-25

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WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

Arsenal now turn their attention to their next challenge, as they host Aston Villa on Saturday. With Liverpool maintaining their stronghold at the top, Arteta’s side knows every point is critical in their pursuit of the Premier League title