Arsenal vs PSG: Mikel Arteta, the "mini Guardiola" steering the Gunners towards a positive trajectory
Morning of April 16, Pep Guardiola's phone rings, Mikel Arteta on the line. The Arsenal manager wants to thank his mentor, just hours before taking on Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals' return leg. In a press conference following their qualification, Arteta* voiced his gratitude, stating, "He's been an inspiration, he believed in me. I'll always be grateful. Without him, I wouldn't be here."**
Instead of basking in his team's victory over reigning champions Real Madrid (3-0, 2-1), or even throwing down a challenge to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) – Arsenal's upcoming semi-final opponent – Arteta chose to remain humble. PSG, aware of their previous struggle against Arsenal (0-2 loss in the league phase on October 1), will undoubtedly prepare accordingly for their first-leg clash on April 29 at 9 pm.
"Arteta has turned Arsenal into one of the toughest teams worldwide," admitted Luis Enrique, PSG's coach. Arteta's road to success has been nothing short of remarkable, and his journey from Barcelona's La Masia academy to Arsenal's manager reveals a story of growth, determination, and the power of influential figures like Guardiola.
Early Days in La Masia
Despite spending four years in Barcelona's prestigious youth academy, Arteta found himself in a difficult situation in January 2001, thanks to the fierce competition from talents like Guardiola, Luis Enrique, and Xavi. His talent was undeniable, but finding a spot in the team's strong midfield was a challenge.
From Paris Saint-Germain to Arsenal
Leaving his Basque Country roots behind (where he grew up alongside friend Xabi Alonso, now coach of Bayer Leverkusen), Arteta joined La Masia. However, his first move as a professional was to Paris Saint-Germain under Luis Fernandez, which marked a significant period in his career. Despite his time in Paris being crucial for his growth, the team faced its fair share of challenges during his tenure, culminating in a disappointing first-time league finish below the half in 2002/03.
Relationship with Pep Guardiola
Arteta and Guardiola's paths crossed once again when Arteta was part of Manchester City's playing staff. After retiring, Arteta rejoined Manchester City's coaching staff under Guardiola, where he gained essential experience as an assistant manager before claiming the Arsenal manager's role in 2019.
The Arsenal Project
Since his appointment as Arsenal's manager, Arteta has been working tirelessly to establish a sustainable project with the club, incorporating many of the managerial philosophies he learned from Guardiola. His background, both as a player and coach, has undoubtedly influenced his approach to critical games against top-tier teams.
In conclusion, Arteta's journey from Barcelona's youth academy to Arsenal's manager is a testament to his persistence, his time in key roles, and the impact of influential figures like Guardiola. While specific victories against Real Madrid and PSG may not be highlighted in his managerial tenure, his experiences, both as a player and a coach under Guardiola, have shaped his managerial style significantly.
Mikel Arteta's time at Arsenal has been marked by a perceived transformation, with sports pundits hailing them as one of the toughest teams in European-leagues.
Were Arteta to return to the Premier League's battleground with another club, fans would undoubtedly attribute his success to the influence of Pep Guardiola, his mentor who believed in him.
Given his first move as a professional was to Paris Saint-Germain, one might wonder what could have been if Arteta had remained in the French capital instead of departing for La Masia.
It's possible that without Pep Guardiola's guidance, Arteta's managerial style might have evolved differently, but the strategic approach he has employed at Arsenal undeniably mirrors Guardiola's methodology and principles.
Arteta's journey, from a budding talent at La Masia through the trials and triumphs of Paris Saint-Germain, and into the hot seat at Arsenal, is a testament to the power of mentors and the journey of self-discovery that football can provide.
