The father of the girl who was chosen as the Arsenal mascot has replied after the controversy video went viral
A tweet that went viral in the football world has sparked a huge argument about how players should talk to young fans. The tweet was shared by the father of a young Arsenal fan who was a mascot during the game between West Ham and Arsenal last weekend.
The club’s official account shared a video of the players signing the mascot’s shirt, but they didn’t talk to the young fan. Fans were quick to criticise the players for not noticing the young girl’s appearance, which caused some controversy.
Dad of Arsenal mascot girl responds as video controversy snowballs
But the girl’s father has since gone on Twitter to talk about the video and support his club. He said that his daughter’s experience of holding Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard’s hand onto the field before the game was special, even though she only had a short time to meet the players.
My daughter had a lovely time as Mascot for @Arsenal. There was only a small window to meet the players and she enjoyed it very much. Odegaard is her favourite player so to hold his hand onto the pitch was very special. pic.twitter.com/SXNTMK4Ab9
— JMurray (@muzzygoona) April 18, 2023
Even though the dad said that his daughter had a great day, others have said what they think happened to the young character. Many Arsenal fans have criticised the way the players treated the young fan.
Nick Knowles, the face of television show DIY SOS, tweeted: “I suggest @Arsenal you get her and her family back and give your players another go at being decent human beings – admittedly they’d have to be coached into it, but it might be something that sticks with some of them if it’s pointed out.”
Arsenal fans react to supporters’ mixed reactions to treatment of young mascot
Another user wrote: “I’m glad to hear she had a lovely time pal. Can tell she was so pleased to see the players at the shirt sign. Just think a smile and acknowledgment to her would have cost nothing from them. Top dad giving her that experience.”
Making memories with our mascot ❤️ pic.twitter.com/LjGWmzd2Vl
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 16, 2023
Even though many fans didn’t like what the players did, some have stood up for them. One user said, “I am so sorry you have had to see some of the absolute rubbish posted here today. I hope your lovely girl had the best day. COYG.”
When it came to sports, the young fan could have done better. Arsenal gave up a two-goal lead for the second week in a row, losing more points away from home that they didn’t need to. After Bukayo Saka missed his penalty, Jarrod Bowen scored a goal to tie the game and finish the comeback for the Hammers in the second half.
Arsenal and Manchester City face off in crucial PL match
Arsenal is trying to win its first title since 2004. Manchester City is now right behind them in the race for the title. Arsenal will play at the Etihad Stadium on April 26 in a game that should be exciting and could be a winner-takes-all match in both teams’ bids to win the Premier League.
The event has started a discussion about what players should do and how they should treat young fans. Many fans have criticised the players for not talking to the little girl, but others have supported what they did. Regardless, the incident shows how important it is to give young fans good experiences and how football clubs can help build a feeling of community and acceptance.