Pep Guardiola, the esteemed manager of Manchester City, always harbored confidence in Mikel Arteta’s potential to excel at Arsenal.
Their professional relationship blossomed during their time together at Manchester City, where Arteta made the transition from player to assistant coach in 2016.
When Arteta assumed the role of Arsenal’s manager in December 2019 following Unai Emery’s departure, Guardiola offered his steadfast support and praised Arteta’s tactical expertise.
Guardiola expressed his conviction, stating, “I was certain he would become a manager when the opportunity arose, and this was his chance.”
He highlighted Arteta’s influence on the team, noting the improvement in their positional play. Guardiola firmly believed that Arsenal would thrive under Arteta’s leadership.
Fast forward four years, and Arteta has indeed transformed Arsenal into a formidable contender in the Premier League, challenging Guardiola’s City for the top position.
Despite trailing City by five points last season, Arsenal is now neck-and-neck with City and Liverpool, separated by just one point.
Guardiola even went as far as suggesting that Arteta’s Arsenal poses a greater threat than Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.
“Last season, they were our biggest rivals, not Liverpool. And look at how they continue to perform,” Guardiola remarked.
“Liverpool often require 90 minutes or more to secure victories, whereas Arsenal can clinch games in just 25 minutes.”
As Arsenal prepares for a crucial Premier League showdown against Manchester City, young talent Bukayo Saka exudes confidence in their ability to emerge victorious.
Saka, reflecting on their current position atop the league table and progress in the Champions League, expressed optimism about their upcoming match against City.
“We believe we can defeat City,” Saka asserted. “Currently, we lead the league and have advanced to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, providing us with momentum and belief as we head into the international break.
This gives us confidence that we can secure a positive result at the Etihad.”
Under Arteta’s guidance, Saka’s optimism may soon be realized, echoing Guardiola’s earlier endorsement of Arteta’s managerial capabilities.
