ABOUT Mikel Arteta Amatriain, born on March 26, 1982, in San Sebastián, Spain, is a distinguished football manager and former professional player. Known for his tactical nous and vision, he currently serves as the manager of Arsenal Football Club in the English Premier League. Arteta's managerial career has been marked by a focus on progressive football, emphasizing ball possession, dynamic attacking play, and disciplined defending.
BEFORE FAME Arteta's football journey began at the youth academy of San Sebastián’s native club Antiguoko, from where he moved to Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy. Although he never made a senior appearance for Barcelona, he honed his skills and gained valuable experience that set the foundation for his future success. Arteta subsequently enjoyed stints with Paris Saint-Germain (on loan), Rangers, Real Sociedad, and, most notably, Everton and Arsenal, where he solidified his reputation as a refined midfielder.
TRIVIA Throughout his playing career, Arteta was celebrated for his technical abilities, adept passing, and leadership qualities. He was particularly renowned for his versatility, being capable of playing in various midfield roles. Despite his accomplishments on the field, Arteta never earned a cap for the Spanish national team, largely due to the intense competition within the squad during his prime years. As a manager, one of his notable achievements includes guiding Arsenal to an FA Cup victory in the 2019-2020 season.
FAMILY LIFE Mikel Arteta is married to Lorena Bernal, a Spanish actress, television host, and model, crowned Miss Spain in 1999. The couple has three children together: Gabriel, Daniel, and Oliver. His family has been an essential source of support throughout his professional journey, both as a player and a manager. Arteta frequently emphasizes the importance of family and often credits them for his successes and stability off the pitch.
ASSOCIATED WITH Mikel Arteta's football career has been intertwined with several influential figures. As a player and budding manager at Arsenal, he forged a strong association with Arsène Wenger, the club's legendary manager. Moving into coaching, Arteta worked under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, serving as an assistant coach. His tenure with Guardiola had a profound impact, significantly shaping his managerial philosophy and approach to the game. Arteta has also managed and collaborated with numerous high-profile players, nurturing talents such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal.
