Radical rule change proposed that would make Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta delighted

Arteta was booked for leaving the technical area against Everton and claims other managers breach the rule far more frequently, sparking debate about abolishing the restriction entirely.

Mikel Arteta received a yellow card during Arsenal's 2-0 win over Everton for repeatedly leaving his technical area. In his post-match press conference, the Arsenal manager revealed he has been collecting evidence of other Premier League managers violating the same rule, claiming one manager left their box 36 times in ten minutes without receiving a caution.

Arteta's complaint prompted discussion on talkSPORT Breakfast about whether technical areas serve any purpose. Presenter Jeff Stelling argued they should be abolished entirely, noting that managers rarely face consequences for breaching the rule and spend roughly a quarter of the match outside their designated area anyway. Ally McCoist agreed, suggesting managers would naturally stay near the dugout regardless of formal restrictions.

Statistics cited during the show revealed that Unai Emery was the Premier League manager most frequently outside his technical area last season. The conversation descended into humorous suggestions for enforcement, including barbed wire, mines, and electric shock collars similar to those used on pets. If the rule were scrapped, many Premier League managers would likely welcome the change.