EPL: Guardiola recognises Arteta’s ‘influence’ in his career

Pep Guardiola has recognised Mikel Arteta’s role in his managerial career and how the Arsenal boss has turned things around at the Emirates.

Arsenal face Manchester City on Friday night in the FA Cup Fourth Round. The two sides are yet to face each other this season with two Premier League fixtures still to come.

The Gunners currently hold a five-point lead over City with a game in hand. As things stand, Arsenal are currently projected to pick up 100 points this season.

Guardiola has spoken on the influence Arteta has had on his own coaching career as the pair are set to face off on Friday.

When asked why he chose to work with Arteta, the Man City boss explained (via Manchester Evening News): “I knew him a little bit. We make conversations. He said he’d like to work together, he can help because he knows the Premier League and the managers.

“You know sooner or later, but to anticipate the knowledge to go to Stoke away, or every stadium. A guy many years here. I don’t know my part on him but his influence on me was so important to become a better manager.

“I know he went to his club, a supporter, he was a captain there. He loves the club. I remember here when we score goals he jumps a lot except one team. He was sitting there. It was Arsenal. I said that guy likes Arsenal.”