Ahead of Arsenal’s crunch clash against West Ham on Sunday, Mikel Arteta was quick to heap praise on his counterpart David Moyes, who also doubles as his mentor over the years.
The Gunners’ boss is well familiar with Moyes, having played under the Scotsman during his Everton days, totaling an impressive 209 games, which is the most he featured under any manager during his playing days.
Moyes was the one who gave Arteta a chance in the Premier League, after the Spaniard caught the eye during his time at Rangers.
Since taking over as Arsenal manager in 2019, Arteta remains unbeaten against his now-rival, David Moyes, winning five times and playing out to a draw on one occasion in their six clashes on the opposite ends on the dugout.
Asked about how he feels about Moyes ahead of yet another encounter, Arteta had nothing but more praise for his former manager.
Arteta hails Moyes ahead of West Ham clash
“It’s more than respect, I think it’s admiration,” he said about Moyes.
“I loved playing under him. I would have gone through a brick wall for him when he was my manager, as everybody would in that squad.”
“[He’s] a really good coach, exceptional at managing the group and dealing with individuals, and he’s a very special person, very trustworthy, and a man who honours his word. He always did it and he’s someone I learnt a lot from.”
“He asked me to play in positions that I’ve never played in my life. The way he challenged me, but at the same time the way he gave me support, love and care – it was the right balance and it’s what I needed, and he got the best out of me. So, he was really, really helpful.”
West Ham might have blown hot and cold of late but Arteta is expecting a difficult game at the London Stadium and is hopeful his side can deliever the much-needed three points after dropping points against Liverpool last time out.
He added: “It will be a very difficult game.”
“We know, we’ve been there a few times and we always find really tricky and difficult games. I know David really well and how he’s going to prepare for the game as well, and we are ready.”
“It’s going to be a fight; it’s going to be another big derby for us and we’re going to be at our best to win it.”
