Resurfaced clip shows Ian Wright throwing Mikel Arteta six years ago – and the Arsenal legend got it right

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Ian Wright predicted how well Mikel Arteta would do at Arsenal six years ago before his appointment.

The Gunners were looking for a new manager in May 2018 and club legend Arsene Wenger would leave the club that summer.

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Arteta has overseen drastic improvements at Arsenal since his appointmentCredit: AFP

While Unai Emery was appointed that summer, Wright had his own idea about who should take the job when discussing the contenders.

Speaking on Match Of The Day, Wright said: “I quite like the feeling of Mikel Arteta.”

In response to Gary Lineker's comment about his lack of experience, Wright said: “I'd take my chances. We took a risk with (Arsene) Wenger.

“He is someone who knows the club, has been with Pep for a couple of years and has seen what he has been doing.

“Some of those players need a kick in the butt and he might be the right man to do it.”

Emery lasted 18 months as Arsenal boss before Wright got his wish and Arteta was named the club's new head coach in December 2019.

Since then, the Spaniard has certainly taken Arsenal to the top of the game.

As well as winning one FA Cup and two Community Shields, the Gunners have reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League and the semi-finals of the Europa League.

Wright predicted how well Arteta would do when he spoke about him six years ago.

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Wright predicted how well Arteta would do when he spoke about him six years ago.Credit: BBC

They have also improved year on year in the Premier League with two eighth place finishes followed by a fifth place finish in 2022.

Arteta then came close to the title last season when they finished second in the Premier League, a position they will hope to improve upon securing the crown and throughout.

Arsenal legend Paul Merson says he will get a Tottenham Hotspur tattoo if they beat Manchester City to help the Gunners charge the title.



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