Mikel Arteta may not like Man Utd’s treatment against Arsenal. (Image: Getty)
Following his reaction to Arsenal’s Carabao Cup defeat against Newcastle United on Tuesday, the last thing would’ve wanted is a ball-related focus this weekend. But that is the case in the build-up to Sunday’s FA Cup third-round clash against after Mitre’s decision to honour the reigning champions.
United start their defence with a daunting task at the Emirates Stadium against the record 14-time FA Cup holders, .
The Red Devils may visit the capital with some confidence in securing a surprise result after going toe-to-toe with runaway leaders last time out.
However, Arteta’s side will still be licking their wounds, having followed a disappointing draw against Brighton with a 2-0 home loss to in their semi-final first leg midweek.
After the nightmare result, Arteta made the headlines by part-blaming the difference in Puma’s balls to Nike’s balls for the hosts’ wasteful performance.
“We kicked a lot of balls over the bar, and it’s tricky that these balls fly a lot, so there are details that we can do better,” Arteta said.
“It’s very different to a ball, and you have to adapt to that because it flies differently. When you touch it, the grip is very different as well, so you adapt to that.”
The EFL later hit back at Arteta’s aggrievances by stressing that “all clubs play with the same ball.”
Man Utd are the defending FA Cup champions. (Image: Getty)
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But the Spanish coach won’t be able to revert back to the ball against United, given Mitre are the FA Cup’s official supplier.
And the British brand have released a limited-edition ball to celebrate the men’s and women’s competition’s last winners.
United achieved an impressive double at the end of last season, meaning the ball will be used in both men’s and women’s games throughout their respective cup runs.
Simon Rowe, Senior Vice President of Mitre and Global Sports Marketing at Pentland Brands, said: “We’re always looking to bring something new and exciting to the game.
“And the introduction of the Winners’ Ball is a perfect way to celebrate the reigning champions, .
“The Emirates FA Cup and Adobe Women’s FA Cup create so many unforgettable moments for players and fans, and we hope the Winners’ Ball adds an extra layer of excitement and prestige to this iconic tournament.”
Arteta will be at significantly increased risk of continuing his frustrating trophy drought as boss this term if United record a shock win on Sunday.
It would only add to the pressure on the Gunners’ shoulders when they travel to for their Carabao Cup semi-final second leg on February 5.