Why Arsenal vs Manchester United FA Cup tie will feature 'special' match ball amid Mikel Arteta complaint | OneFootball

The Gunners boss caused quite a stir with his comments about the match ball used in the Carabao Cup

Arsenal's FA Cup third round tie at home to Manchester United will feature a “special” match ball.

Ball supplier Mitre have unveiled the FA Cup Ultimax Pro Winners ball that will be exclusively selected for use by the holders of the Emirates FA Cup and Adobe Women's FA Cup this season.

Upon the unveiling, an official statement reads: 'This unique Ultimax Pro football champions Mitre’s rich football heritage in football with a design inspired by the Mitre Ultimax from the late 90s that was given to the Champions of the Premier League. Steeped in history but reimagined for the modern game, the winner’s ball is anticipated to be a sought-after collector’s item with less than 500 made.

'The 2024/5 Emirates FA Cup & Adobe Women’s FA Cup Ultimax Pro 24/5 football designs are elevated further for this special winner’s ball with bright, gold accents emphasising the magic of the cup and bringing pride to the reigning champions’ play.'

'The Ultimax Pro, used in all sponsored FA competitions, is built over decades of knowledge, the FIFA Quality Pro accredited ball uses unique four panel thermally bonded construction increasing that sweet spot for a cleaner strike. Hyperflow debossed grooves improve in-flight dynamics and reduce drag for pinpoint passing and the Hyperfoam mid-layer improves contact for a responsive first touch and exceptional close control. Incredible flight consistency, unbeatable shape retention and ultimate power.'

Simon Rowe, Senior Vice President of Mitre & Global Sports Marketing at Pentland Brands, said: “We’re always looking to bring something new and exciting to the game, and the introduction of the Winners’ Ball is a perfect way to celebrate the reigning champions, Manchester United.

"We’re always looking to bring something new and exciting to the game, and the introduction of the Winners’ Balls is a perfect way to celebrate the reigning champions, Manchester United.

“The Emirates FA Cup and Adobe Women’s FA Cup create so many unforgettable moments for players and fans, and we hope the Winners’ Balls add an extra layer of excitement and prestige to this iconic competition.”

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will hope his side don’t have any issues adapting to a different match ball amid complaints after the Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat by Newcastle United.

The Gunners squandered numerous opportunities and Arteta suggested the ball could have been a factor, bringing it up unprompted when asked if the missed chances could have an impact on his players from a psychological perspective.

In the Carabao Cup, teams play with a Puma football as opposed to the Nike one used in the Premier League.

AFP via Getty Images

When asked specifically about the ball used in the Carabao Cup, Arteta said: “It’s just different.

“Very different to a Premier League ball, and you have to adapt to that because it flies different. When you touch it the grip is very different as well so you adapt to that.”