Mikel Arteta revealed that he was inspired by a phone call with Pep Guardiola ahead of Arsenal’s impressive 5-1 aggregate win over Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The Gunners eliminated the defending champions with a remarkable 2-1 victory at the Bernabeu, securing a spot in the semi-finals against Paris Saint-Germain.
Arteta described the win as one of the “best nights of his career” and shared that he spoke with Guardiola, his former mentor at Manchester City where he served as assistant coach, on the morning of the second leg.
“I called him this morning because if I am here, it is largely thanks to him. He has been a significant inspiration to me. I spent four amazing years with him, and I will always be grateful to him. Without him, I wouldn’t be here.” said Mikel Arteta
Arsenal’s victory at the Bernabeu, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, secured a historic 5-1 aggregate triumph over Real Madrid.
