Arteta Reflects on Wenger’s Influence Ahead of North London Derby

Mikel Arteta has expressed that he often contemplates what Arsene Wenger would do in challenging situations as he leads Arsenal toward potential trophies this season. With a crucial match against Tottenham Hotspur approaching, Arteta aims to maintain their three-point advantage at the top of the Premier League. His aspiration is to replicate Wenger’s legacy of delivering league titles to north London.

In a recent interview with Sky Sports News, Arteta acknowledged Wenger as one of four pivotal mentors in his career, alongside Pep Guardiola, Mauricio Pochettino, and David Moyes. While the latter three remain active in football and have been direct competitors, Arteta revealed that he continues to seek Wenger’s wisdom regarding his role at Arsenal. “He’s there. He’s constantly living with me in the present,” Arteta shared, underscoring the lasting impact Wenger has had on his development as a manager.

Arteta articulated his gratitude, stating, “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for him,” referring to the foundational principles Wenger instilled in him during his time at the club. He elaborated on his thought process, saying, “When I have to reflect and think about certain things, I always go back to that period: what is the way that he would do it?”

As Arsenal prepares to face Tottenham, Arteta remains focused on understanding his players’ perspectives. “When I’m thinking about a player, I would think: let me sit in his chair, see what he thinks,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of empathy in leadership.

In terms of seeking guidance, Arteta mentioned that he primarily turns to his players for leadership support. “They are the ones where if I’m in a certain emotional state where I’m lacking something, it’s probably going to come from there or the staff,” he explained. Alongside his players, Arteta values his family and his mentors, crediting them as vital influences in his journey.

Arteta’s demeanor appears to have evolved during his tenure at Arsenal. Observers have noted a calmer presence from him on the touchline and in press conferences this season. “It’s an evolution of a human being,” Arteta commented, reflecting on the personal and professional changes he has undergone over the past few years.

He acknowledged that the needs of the team have shifted since his arrival, stating, “The understanding of what kind of manager and leader the team needs right now, maybe it’s different to the one the team needed two or three seasons ago.”

Arteta also highlighted how his role as a father has influenced his approach, as his children are at different developmental stages. “I’ve been here six years; it’s different. The people around me are different now and they’re transmitting different things to me now,” he said.

Looking ahead, Arteta hopes to end Arsenal’s five-year trophy drought this season. Notably, he has maintained an impressive record at the Emirates Stadium during the north London derby, having never lost a home game to Spurs, either as a player or manager.

The much-anticipated match between Arsenal and Tottenham is set to take place on October 1, 2023, with kickoff scheduled for 16:30 local time. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Arteta can steer his team to victory and strengthen their position at the top of the Premier League.