Atletico Madrid FURIOUS with Arsenal after bizarre malfunction in the Emirates dressing room

Last Updated on 21 October 2025

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid meet at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night in what promises to be one of the most intense clashes of the Champions League group stage.

Both sides come into the game in strong form, Arsenal unbeaten in 8, and Atletico hammering Frankfurt 5–1 in their last Champions League outing.

Mikel Arteta’s men will be eager to extend their perfect group-stage record, while Diego Simeone’s side arrive with that familiar mix of grit, fire, and defiance. But the drama started long before kick-off.

Atletico Madrid furious after cold-water incident at Emirates Stadium

Tensions flared hours before the Champions League showdown after Atletico Madrid’s players were unable to shower with hot water. It happened right after their evening training session at the Emirates.

According to the Independent, the visitors were left “angry and frustrated”. They believe the situation showed “a lack of respect” from the hosts.

Atletico players and staff, still sweating after training, were forced to return to their hotel to shower. As expected, the incident has quickly made its way to UEFA.

However, Arsenal later issued an apology, explaining the malfunction had affected both dressing rooms. The problem was detected 45 minutes before Atletico’s session ended and the staff fixed it shortly after the Spaniards departed.

Mikel Arteta reveals admiration for Diego Simeone

Despite the minor off-pitch controversy, Mikel Arteta showed respect for Diego Simeone, calling him one of his managerial inspirations.

“There is someone that I look up to and learn from in many situations,” said Arteta.
“What is outstanding is his passion. To stay that long, with the same players, and still transmit that same energy and hunger to win. That’s extraordinary.”

Arteta described Simeone’s longevity at Atletico as “a benchmark for leadership and resilience in football.” The Spaniard’s Arsenal side mirrors many of the principles Simeone has built his reputation on.

Both managers also share Basque roots, a deep tactical awareness, and an obsession with mentality. As a result, the upcoming fixture will be an interesting one, to say the least.

Arsenal will be aiming to maintain their superb start to the season, but Simeone’s Atletico have rarely needed extra motivation. And after the cold-water controversy, they will have even more reason to come out swinging.