FOOTAGE shows Mikel Arteta sympathised with Cristiano Ronaldo as the striker complained to the fourth official during Manchester United’s 3-1 loss to Arsenal last Saturday.
Ronaldo, 37, was frustrated with the officials failing to award his side a penalty when Jadon Sancho went down in the box under a challenge from Cedric Soares.
So when Arsenal were instead awarded a penalty moments later Ronaldo rushed over to the sideline to question the officials’ decision-making.
But the Portuguese realised he was fighting a losing battle with Arsenal’s bench camera showing the striker graciously accepting Arteta’s offer of a handshake.
The Gunners boss then pointed towards his team’s penalty box as an admission his side could have conceded a spot-kick.
Ronaldo then did the same before compatriot Soares approached him with outstretched arms – as if to say he did nothing wrong.
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Bukayo Saka scored the resulting penalty and although CR7 pulled one back for United, Granit Xhaka responded to give his side a 3-1 win.
Some fans have been speculating about what was said between Arteta and Ronaldo.
One Gooner captioned the post from the perspective of the Portuguese, tweeting: “Can I play for Arsenal too next season gaffer?”
Another added: “He’s saying “at the end of the game I want your autograph best manager in the world.”
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A third said: “Needed coaching from Arteta to score. Generational manager.”
Ronaldo may not have asked Arteta for a transfer but the Spaniard is said to be keen on a different Manchester-based attacker – Gabriel Jesus.
The Manchester City star has reportedly agreed personal terms with the club after months of talks with transfer chief Edu.
