What is 'Haram Ball' and Why is Mikel Arteta Famous for It?

In recent years, the phrase “Haram Ball” has become a big talking point in football conversation, particularly with Arsenal fans and their Premier League rivals. Since Mikel Arteta took over at Arsenal, the term has been thrown about several times, leading people to question exactly what it means, and why exactly Arteta is so closely associated with it?

The level of haram ball that Mikel Arteta will play at the Santiago bro. 😭😭😭

— Alabi (@the_Lawrenz) April 8, 2025

What is Haram Ball

To put it simply, 'Haram Ball' is a tongue-in-cheek term used to describe a pragmatic, sometimes cynical style of football that prioritises winning over entertainment. The word “haram” is an Arabic saying, meaning “forbidden” or “sinful,” and supporters use it ironically to suggest that certain tactical approaches go against the way football should be played. It often refers to teams that slow the game down at any given opportunity rather than playing constant attacking football with fearlessness and flair.

arteta rolling out 3 left backs, 3 center backs and 3 CDMs, this is haram ball lmfaaaooooooooo pic.twitter.com/htCht1efkK

— Aaron West (@oeste) March 12, 2025

Mikel Arteta's Dark Arts

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have picked up this unflattering label because of the way they manage matches. Under Arteta, Arsenal have built one of the Premier League’s most resilient defensive records, with their willingness to “kill” momentum drawing both criticism and admiration. Fans of rival clubs often mock Arsenal’s approach with the ‘Haram Ball’ nickname due to the nature in which the game of football is played; however, many also showing admiration for the fact that it often gets results.

The phrase has become part of football social media scene, but it also shows a bigger argument about modern football. Purists say that the game should always be played with the goal of attacking, while pragmatists say that to win trophies, you need to be flexible and willing to use the "dark arts". Arteta doesn't often talk about the term directly, but the way his Arsenal team has changed from a fun, young team to a disciplined, ruthless contender shows why 'Haram Ball' has become such a hot topic.

Arteta just took **Haram** ball to a whole new level. You think it's impossible for one player, but two players? That's **INSANE**! pic.twitter.com/7YoLA9Z0wh

— Vince™ (@Blue_Footy) September 23, 2024

Anti-football Is Still Football

In the end, no matter how you watch and appreciate football, 'Haram Ball' is less an insult and more a badge of recognition.

It just shows how Arsenal under Mikel Arteta have grown into a side that can blend exciting football with grit and a true desire to grind out a result.

If it helps them finally end their long wait for a Premier League title, few supporters will care how they played to do it.