The Arsenal boss, a former assistant to Pep Guardiola, offered high praise for the incoming City coach ahead of their Community Shield clash.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly expressed strong confidence in Enzo Maresca, stating he expects the new Manchester City boss to do an “unbelievable job” at the Etihad Stadium. Maresca steps into the formidable shoes left by Pep Guardiola, who departed after a hugely successful decade with the club.
Arteta's comments came during a press conference on Friday, just before the Premier League champions Arsenal are set to face FA Cup holders Manchester City in the Community Shield this Sunday in Cardiff. This match will mark Maresca's first high-profile occasion at the helm, offering an early glimpse into his leadership.
The Arsenal manager, who previously served as an assistant under Guardiola at City, offered a glowing tribute to his former mentor while making it clear he anticipates Arsenal's title rivals will remain a dominant force under Maresca's guidance, according to reporting by Vanguard Nigeria - Sports.
Arteta's High Praise for Pep Guardiola's Legacy
Before discussing Maresca, Arteta reflected on Pep Guardiola's significant impact on English football. He lauded Guardiola for introducing a new tactical understanding to the game, asserting that he “escalated the Premier League to a different level.” Arteta also shared his personal fortune, stating, “I was very lucky to be part of that for four years and understand and witness how it’s done daily.”
Arteta went further, declaring Guardiola as “the best coach in the history of football” for numerous reasons, including his consistent success across various countries and playing styles. Guardiola departs Manchester City after a remarkable 10-year tenure, having secured 20 major trophies. His presence, Arteta believes, “will be missed in the Premier League.”
In Guardiola’s final season, Manchester City secured both the FA Cup and the League Cup, though they ultimately finished as runners-up to Arteta’s Arsenal in the Premier League. Arteta guided Arsenal to end their 22-year wait for a league title, making the transition period at City particularly interesting for their rivals.
Enzo Maresca's Qualities and Selection Rationale
Transitioning to the new City manager, Arteta confirmed his familiarity with Enzo Maresca, noting, “now it’s Enzo. I know him well and he will provide something different to the club.” He emphasized Maresca's suitability for the role, believing he possesses the necessary attributes to succeed.
Arteta highlighted Maresca's “personality, the character, and especially the knowledge to have an unbelievable job there.” He suggested that City's decision to appoint Maresca was deliberate and well-founded, explaining, “That’s why he’s been selected, because they could probably pick anybody and they’ve gone for Enzo for the right reasons.”
The Arsenal boss cited Maresca's proven track record, stating, “He has demonstrated that at every level. What he’s done in the Champions League and what he’s done, when he’s been at Chelsea and now here, so I have no doubt that he will do a great job.” This demonstrates a strong belief in Maresca’s capabilities from a rival manager.
Arsenal's Community Shield Preparations and Squad Updates
Shifting focus to his own squad, Arteta confirmed that England internationals Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are likely to feature in the Community Shield match against Manchester City. Additionally, new signings Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis are also expected to make an appearance for Arsenal.
Arteta conveyed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, stating, “We are really excited to start the season, to start with the first trophy.” He noted the return of all international players, adding, “we can’t wait to start competing.”
The Arsenal manager expressed a clear objective for Sunday's encounter, emphasizing the need for his team to deliver their top performance. He asserted, “The best version has to be on Sunday and that’s the intention, that we have the best performance and the best way to start the season by lifting the first trophy.”
Arsenal's Transfer Ambitions and Squad Evolution
Arteta was asked about recent transfer speculation linking Arsenal with Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah, following reported difficulties in acquiring Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa. However, the Arsenal manager remained tight-lipped on specific targets.
He declined to discuss “any individuals” from other clubs but reaffirmed Arsenal's overarching strategy. Arteta stated, “Obviously what I can tell you is the ambition of the club. We want to improve the squad, we want to evolve the squad in order to achieve that.” This indicates a clear intention to strengthen the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Pep Guardiola leave Manchester City?
Pep Guardiola concluded his 10-year tenure as Manchester City manager at the end of last season, during which he won 20 major trophies, leaving a significant legacy in the Premier League.
Who is Enzo Maresca and what is his background?
Enzo Maresca is the new manager of Manchester City, replacing Pep Guardiola. He previously managed Chelsea and has a background that Mikel Arteta believes includes the “personality, the character, and especially the knowledge” for the role.
Which Arsenal players are expected to feature in the Community Shield?
Arsenal's England duo Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are expected to be involved in the Community Shield, along with new signings Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis.
What is Mikel Arteta's relationship with Enzo Maresca?
Mikel Arteta knows Enzo Maresca well, and he believes Maresca has proven his capabilities at “every level,” expressing no doubt that he “will do a great job” at Manchester City.
How did Manchester City perform in Pep Guardiola's final season?
In Pep Guardiola's final season, Manchester City won the FA Cup and the League Cup, finishing as Premier League runners-up behind Arsenal.