Mikel Arteta reveals why he ‘admires’ Diego Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, on the eve of the Champions League match against Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has admitted that he ‘admires’ the coach of Atlético de Madrid, Diego Simeone, on the eve of the Argentinian’s clash with Arsenal in the Champions League.

Simeone is one of the most veteran coaches of the European competition, with almost 14 years on the bench of the La Liga giant, eight more than Arteta at the Emirates.

In the midst of the turbulent culture of coach changes in the Premier League, Arteta is the second coach who has played the longest in the English championship, and the Spaniard admitted that Simeone’s motivation was an inspiration for him.

“Well, it’s obvious that he’s someone I admire and learn from him in many situations, and that’s what makes him so special,” Arteta said.

“I think about the time he has been in football and in the same club with the same players, how he still has that hand and that ability to transmit so much energy and desire to win.”

‘It’s a very tough environment we live in, and to continue convincing the players you also have to be extraordinary.’

Mikel Arteta admitted that he admires the long career of Diego Simeone in Atlético de Madrid

The Argentine veteran arrived at the La Liga giants in December 2011, 14 years ago

‘I don’t know (Simeone) personally, but everything I’ve heard about him is that he’s very good at doing that. That’s one of the reasons he’s able to stay at that level.’

Arteta also suggested that if he left, Simeone, who won the Spanish League and the Europa League twice, would do well in England.

“If it works in the Champions League, which is the top European competition, it can do it anywhere,” added the Gunners coach.

‘You have to come here and try it and feel it, but I am very sure that your knowledge, and your character and will, will take you anywhere.’

Arsenal remain unbeaten in the first phase of the Champions League this season, but they will face a tough test against Atlético de Simeone.

“The level of organization is really high, the level of discipline is really high,” said Arteta.

“They have acquired a lot of talents over the years that are very specific to the needs and the way they want to play, and they are very good at exploiting opportunities.”