Arteta leaves Arsenal fans with an open letter!
Former Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta, who retired from the professional game at the end of last season, has today officially confirmed his move to Manchester City to work as a coach.
Arteta became a ‘silent hero’ so to say at Arsenal, as he really did help stabilise the club during its most recent tough years. Arteta done his job to the highest standard at Arsenal, whilst managing to keep a low profile. Arteta was a leader both on and off the pitch and even in the latter stages of his career, where he spent most of the season out of the team, he still led by example and was on hand for experience and advice.
Arteta has therefore decided to take up the role as a coach in order to continue his influence on the game, but he was very thankful to the Arsenal fans before he left. Arteta said: “I’ve enjoyed my amazing five years at Arsenal and it’s been an honour and a privilege to captain such a great club. I would like to personally thank the manager, board, all of my team-mates and, of course, the fans for the fantastic support I’ve received during my time.”
Arteta will look back with fond memories of his time with Arsenal and I’m sure there’s many great moments Arsenal fans will remember of Arteta for years to come. I’ll never forget that late strike against Manchester City. It was so significant in both that seasons run in, as well as showing that we were close to returning to the ambitious and competitive nature that Arsenal football club should hold.
It’s a shame that Arteta wasn’t offered the chance to remain with Arsenal as a coach, but you cannot blame the former midfielder for wanted to move on with another club, to start the next stage of his involvement with football.
By AH