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Mikel ArtetaSpanish footballer, coach
Date of Birth: 26.03.1982
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Mikel Arteta: A Footballing Journey
- Success with Rangers
- A Return to Spain and Time at Everton
- Arsenal Arrival and Triumphs
- Captaincy and Retirement
- Coaching Career
- Honours
Mikel Arteta: A Footballing Journey
Early CareerMikel Arteta, a renowned Spanish footballer and coach, embarked on his footballing journey at his local club, Antiguoko. There, he forged a close friendship with fellow midfielder Xabi Alonso, sharing a dream of representing Real Sociedad. At the age of 15, Arteta joined FC Barcelona's youth system, while Alonso signed for Real Sociedad. Despite his potential, Arteta failed to break into the Barcelona first team and was loaned to Paris Saint-Germain in 2000.
Success with Rangers
In 2002, Arteta joined Scottish giants Rangers. During his debut season, he played a pivotal role in the club's triumph, winning the Scottish Premier League, Scottish Cup, and Scottish League Cup. He became a fan favorite and a regular in the starting lineup. However, injuries, loss of form, and homesickness marred his second season, forcing him to seek a move away.
A Return to Spain and Time at Everton
In 2004, Arteta returned to Spain, joining Real Sociedad for a fee of €5.2 million. However, with his friend Alonso leaving for Liverpool, Arteta struggled to establish himself in the team.
In January 2005, he was loaned to Everton, where he signed a permanent contract shortly after. He remained with the Toffees until 2011, becoming a key figure in their midfield.
Arsenal Arrival and Triumphs
On August 31, 2011, Arteta made a high-profile move to Arsenal for a fee of £10 million. He signed a four-year contract after a protracted transfer saga involving Everton's reluctance to let him go and his agent's initial high salary demands.
Arteta played a crucial role in Arsenal's FA Cup wins in 2013/14 and 2014/15. He also became the club's regular penalty-taker following the departure of Robin van Persie.
Captaincy and Retirement
In August 2014, Arteta was named Arsenal's captain. He played his final match for the club on May 15, 2016, scoring a goal in the dying minutes after coming on as a substitute. He announced his retirement from football on May 16, 2016.
Coaching Career
After retiring, Arteta joined Pep Guardiola's coaching staff at Manchester City in July 2016. On December 19, 2019, he took over the reins at Arsenal as head coach, signing a three-and-a-half-year contract.
Honours
Paris Saint-GermainUEFA Intertoto Cup: 2001
Rangers
Scottish Premier League: 2002/03
Scottish League Cup: 2002/03
Scottish Cup: 2002/03
Arsenal
FA Cup: 2013/14, 2014/15
FA Community Shield: 2014, 2015
Personal Life
Arteta is married to former Miss Spain titleholder Lorena Bernal, with whom he has three sons: Gabriel, Daniel, and Oliver.
