Arsenal consider protocol change after Conor McGregor incident with Bukayo Saka
The Gunners launch review after UFC star's unauthorised pitch appearance raised safety concerns
Arsenal are taking steps to prevent a repeat of the unusual scenes after their Champions League match on Tuesday night, when UFC fighter Conor McGregor playfully sparred with Bukayo Saka.
The incident sparked an internal review, as McGregor was not given permission to be on the pitch, where he also had a kickabout with Declan Rice and Saka after the 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain.
McGregor was at the fixture to promote his Irish whiskey after his team contacted VIP event organiser 1 Access about the prospect of attending.
It’s understood McGregor entered the pitch without Arsenal’s approval and was asked to leave, with Saka also telling the Irishman to ‘be careful’ after his playful sparring connected with the England international.
The club is now reviewing its post-match protocols, including player interactions with corporate guests, and distancing itself from McGregor, given his controversial history. McGregor has faced legal issues, including a 2019 assault conviction and an incident involving a mascot at an NBA game in 2023.