Arsenal's head coach Mikel Arteta has spoken warmly about the forthcoming meeting with Xabi Alonso, his old friend and now the new manager of Chelsea.
This Sunday, September 6, Arsenal will host Chelsea in a high-stakes Premier League showdown. Both teams have begun the season in fine form, winning their opening two matches and earning six points each.
This encounter will be the first Premier League meeting between Arteta and Alonso as head coaches. Their friendship, which dates back to their playing days in Spain, has significantly enriched their journeys. The pair last faced each other in a friendly match in 2024, when Alonso managed Bayer.
🤝 Arteta: 'I'm really happy for him'
Arteta expressed great respect for Alonso's recent appointment at Chelsea, recognising the special significance of facing a friend at this level of competition.
"I'm really happy for him. It's incredible because it's clear that we have a shared history. The same can be said for Andoni [Iraola]."
"To meet at this level and carry such responsibility while managing some of the best clubs in the country is truly a wonderful thing."
Despite their competitive rivalry on the pitch, Arteta emphasised that their friendship will endure for many years to come.
⚔️ 'Now the competition begins'
According to Arteta, the tight football schedule will make it more challenging for them to meet outside of work, but their personal relationship will remain intact.
"Now it will be harder for us to get together because of our schedules. But this friendship will last for many years. We have shared wonderful moments together."
Nevertheless, Arteta made it clear that once they step onto the pitch, personal ties take a backseat:
"Now the competition begins. When you meet each other, you know what's at stake."
🔵 Alonso impresses Arteta
Arteta also commended Alonso's impressive start at Chelsea, noting that the Blues have won both of their opening fixtures and their attacking unit has made a notable impact.
The partnership of Morgan Rodgers, Joao Pedro, and Cole Palmer has particularly stood out, with Chelsea scoring seven goals across their first two matches.
Arteta highlighted that Alonso's team is capable of adjusting their style of play, and the rapid goals from Chelsea are proving significant in shaping match outcomes.
Now, the friendly rivalry between Arteta and Alonso will unfold into one of the most fervent London derbies.
