Arsenal 'launch internal inquiry' after Conor McGregor defied orders during Emirates trip

Arsenal have reportedly launched an internal inquiry after UFC star Conor McGregor was seen mingling with several players following last week’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.

Clips shared on social media showed McGregor – who is also known as ‘Notorious’ – having a kickabout with Arsenal stars Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.

Further footage also appeared to show McGregor play-fighting with England international Saka, who despite laughing off the situation, looked to be uncomfortable with the MMA star’s actions.

Aiming kicks towards the forward’s knees, McGregor also looked as if he was about to pick Saka up by his waist – moves that could’ve resulted in an injury for the Arsenal ace.

The incident is said to have been one of great embarrassment for the Arsenal bigwigs, given McGregor had entered the playing surface without permission, as well as being asked to head back inside once security chiefs became aware.

As per The Telegraph, McGregor is said to have been in attendance for the 2-0 victory over PSG after acquiring VIP tickets through a third-party provider at the last minute.

The Irishman was being entertained by 1 Access – a hospitality company who have a box at the Emirates Stadium and regularly hosts celebrities for the Gunners’ fixtures.

It’s here where McGregor is said to have first been introduced to some of the Arsenal squad, before accompanying them pitchside – a move that wasn’t initially challenged by security.

Arsenal are now believed to be reviewing the arrangement that allows corporate guests to mingle with players post-match, while also attempting to distance themselves from the ‘McGregor brand’.

McGregor has previously been convicted of assault, while also having been criticised by Micheal Martin, the Irish Tanaiste, or deputy prime minister, for his remarks about immigration during last year’s Dublin riots.

While not naming McGregor directly, Martin was asked about the fighter’s comments in November 2023: “There’s been many comments online I’ve watched of that type which are absolutely disgraceful and we have a parliamentary democracy and we value that. The Irish people do as well.

“Isolated voices like that and voices that are essentially inciting hate and a degree to some extent incitement, are unacceptable.”

McGregor had posted on X: “You reap what you sow,” as well as claims “Ireland was at war” – a response to the Irish government’s migration policy.

Arsenal’s next Champions League home game sees them take on Shakhtar Donetsk in mid-October.