Arsenal narrowly avoid UEFA punishment over strict Champions League rules

Arsenal narrowly avoided being penalised by UEFA for delaying their press conference ahead of their clash with Inter Milan as the media briefing started just before the cut-off time of 8pm.

The Gunners have jetted out to Milan for their crunch clash against the Italian giants, desperate to bounce back from their disappointing 1-0 loss to on the weekend.

will take on Inter at the San Siro on Wednesday night but were in danger of getting into hot water after being forced to delay their initial press conference time of 6pm GMT (7pm local time).

UEFA rules state that all press conferences must start between 12pm and 8pm local time - with exceptions only allowed after being agreed in advance with the organisation.

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The delay hasn't been explained yet but, luckily for Arsenal and , their press conference got underway just before 8pm local time, meaning they avoiding any repercussions from UEFA.

It. comes just over a year since Newcastle came under fire from UEFA by turning up late to their press conference at AC Milan - with flight delays causing them to miss their 4.30pm media slot. The plane only landed at 8pm, meaning they arrived well after the cut-off time.

When Arsenal's press conference eventually did kick off, Arteta sat alongside and spoke about why he had decided to give the winger the captain's armband for the game.

"People admire him people respect him, they want to be next to him. He has a particular way of smiling. He’s one of our leaders right now. He’s one of our biggest players and our biggest talents. He’s earned that status in the team right now."

Speaking on what kind of captain he would be, Saka insisted he would bring "calm" to the group but said Martin Odegaard was still the primary skipper.

"Martin’s still the captain, I’m just part of the leadership group and I wear the armband when he’s not around. When I do have the armband I’m more of a lead by example kind of guy.

"I think I would [speak to the group] if I needed to but it’s important not to overreact. There’s a lot of noise around the club. It’s important to stay calm. If I need to do that I will do that."

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