Mikel Arteta was a technical midfielder who came through Barcelona’s academy and played for Rangers, Real Sociedad, Everton and Arsenal, where he was captain.
He began his coaching career as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, where he was part of the staff that won back-to-back Premier League titles. Arsenal appointed him head coach in December 2019.
Within months he had won the FA Cup, beating Chelsea in the 2020 final. He then rebuilt the squad around young players such as Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard and William Saliba, turning Arsenal into consistent Premier League title contenders and Champions League semi-finalists in 2025.
Coaching style
Arteta’s teams play possession-based football with strong defensive organisation and detailed attacking patterns. He places great emphasis on set pieces, and Arsenal became one of the most dangerous teams in Europe from corners and free kicks. He is known for his intensity, meticulous preparation and focus on team culture, building a close bond between players and supporters. Under him Arsenal rebuilt from a period of decline into a team that consistently challenges for the Premier League and competes deep in the Champions League.
International career
As a player, Arteta was never capped by Spain at senior level, despite representing them at youth level, because of the strength of Spain’s midfield during his career.