Mikel Arteta sets record straight on his 'black eye' after gritty Arsenal win over Chelsea

During his post-match press conference, a reporter expressed worry about what appeared to be bruising beneath the manager's left eye.

"Sorry, it might be the lighting but it looks like you've got a black eye," the journalist remarked.

The Arsenal boss leaned forward in surprise, touching beneath his eye before confirming: "Yes, I'm very good thank you."

When the reporter revealed they simply wanted to check on his wellbeing rather than ask a football question, Arteta responded with laughter: "Thank you so much, I'm going to give you a hug now!"

The pair subsequently shared an embrace after the press conference concluded.

"Thank you for checking on me!" 🤣

Brilliant moment between Mikel Arteta and a concerned reporter 😂 pic.twitter.com/ot5moJjfkY

— Hayters TV (@HaytersTV) March 1, 2026

William Saliba gave the hosts the advantage with the opening goal, but Arsenal's lead was short-lived.

Piero Hincapie turned the ball into his own net to bring Chelsea level, ensuring the teams went into the interval with the scores tied at 1-1.

The match had been a tightly contested affair, with neither side able to establish dominance before the break.

Arsenal's determination to claim all three points would ultimately prove decisive in the second half as they sought to maintain their position at the summit.

Jurrien Timber delivered the decisive blow for Arsenal, converting from a set-piece to restore the home side's advantage and ultimately seal the victory.

Sunday's triumph was particularly significant given Manchester City's 1-0 success against Leeds United at Elland Road the day before.

Pep Guardiola's side have now strung together four consecutive victories, putting pressure on the league leaders.

However, Arsenal's win ensured they maintained their five-point cushion at the top of the Premier League table.

The Gunners had seen their commanding position eroded in February following disappointing draws against Brentford and bottom-placed Wolves.

Despite their advantage at the top, the title race remains finely poised with City holding a game in hand over their rivals.

The two sides are yet to meet at the Etihad this season, meaning the championship is technically within Guardiola's grasp even though Arsenal remain the clear favourites with the bookmakers.

For Chelsea, the defeat at the Emirates marked a third successive Premier League fixture without a win.

Rosenior's side had previously drawn against newly-promoted Burnley and Leeds, and this latest setback has seen them drop to sixth position in the standings.

The Blues will need to rediscover their form quickly to remain in contention for European qualification.