Arteta reveals crucial quality he seeks in prospective players during Under Armour debut
In a strategic move to enhance its presence in global football, Under Armour is collaborating with Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta. Known for his meticulous approach and eye for talent, Arteta is on a mission to find young players who embody a unique blend of technical skill, tactical intelligence, strong mindset, team orientation, and versatility.
Arteta values a player's mindset and self-belief, as demonstrated in Arsenal's signing of Noni Madueke. He appreciates players with a hunger to improve, a boldness to bet on themselves, and a "healthy delusion" or confidence that drives them to break into new levels.
Beyond individual talent, Arteta prioritizes players who are humble, supportive teammates, able to maintain positive attitudes even during difficult periods. This was emphasized in the case of Max Dowman, a highly rated Arsenal academy player.
Arteta favors players who can perform roles that align with his tactical system. For example, he prefers wingers who can cut inside, create chances, and also contribute defensively, a style exemplified by players like Fofana and Madueke.
Versatility and adaptability are also key characteristics that Arteta values. Players willing to take on challenges such as playing in multiple age groups or roles show the kind of maturity and flexibility Arteta values.
Arsenal's youth scouting focuses on technically gifted, tactically intelligent players who can integrate well into the club's style of play, which emphasizes ball control, movement, and understanding of the system.
Mikel Arteta's philosophy of developing youth as integral members of the squad rather than just individual stars is evident in his comments emphasizing the need for giving more opportunities to young players in England. He believes that England is an incredible market for untapped football talents.
Arteta's history of giving young players opportunities to thrive makes him a suitable fit for spearheading Under Armour's community outreach in London. He also emphasizes the importance of a player's personality in his scouting process, considering how a player relates to his team-mates and influences the group dynamics.
As Arteta's Arsenal side prepares to begin their new season on Sunday, the focus remains on finding and nurturing young talent that can help the team achieve long-term success, while maintaining and sustaining the level of football in England.
Under Armour's collaboration with Mikel Arteta provides an opportunity to scout players who embodies Arteta's philosophy for the Premier League, where versatility, adaptability, and tactical intelligence are key. Arteta's search for young players with strong mindset, team orientation, and a hunger to improve could potentially benefit from Under Armour's sports-analysis tools, potentially elevating their performance in European-leagues and the Premier League.
