Mikel Arteta Praises 'Incredible' Simeone Ahead of Atletico Match
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta cautions against complacency ahead of Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid, praising Diego Simeone's incredible track record.
“What he has done since he got to Atletico has been outstanding, not only what has achieved but the way he has done it...”
Mikel Arteta expressed admiration for Atletico Madrid's manager Diego Simeone, describing him as “incredible” ahead of their Champions League clash. Arteta emphasized the importance of his team's focus and commitment, warning against complacency despite their strong start to the season.
Arsenal sits atop the Premier League standings, three points ahead of their nearest competitors, and boasts a perfect record in the Champions League thus far. However, Arteta remains cautious, refusing to accept the “favourites” tag in the title race, emphasizing the need for his team to stay grounded and focused on the challenge ahead.
“The only thing I embrace is when I see the team, the energy, the temperature, the commitment and quality that they can deliver. That gives me the conviction that we can go all the way,” Arteta told reporters on Monday, a day before hosting Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
“But that's just a feeling, then the next day you have to prove it and you can't be busy thinking about those topics.
“Every game in (the Premier League) is must-win. We are very appreciative of that, so we don't get carried away with anything.”
Mikel Arteta praised William Saliba's initiative to watch Atletico Madrid's match on the team bus after Arsenal's win against Fulham. Arteta said he didn't encourage Saliba to do so, but was delighted that the players are taking the responsibility to prepare for future opponents seriously. According to Arteta, this shows the team's strong mentality and desire to improve, which is crucial for competing at the highest level.
“Very pleased because I didn't encourage it, that came from them. We know this will be a tough one, so the earlier we think about it the better. I love that initiative from the players,” Arteta said.
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— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 20, 2025
Respect for Simeone
Arteta expressed his admiration for Diego Simeone, saying he's “incredible” and highlighting his achievements at Atletico Madrid, including two Europa League and two LaLiga titles since taking charge in 2011.
“What he has done since he got to Atletico has been outstanding, not only what has achieved but the way he has done it. The identity he has created, they are simple and clear to identify because the manager is very much them,” Arteta said.
“That's very difficult to achieve, he's been there 14 years and what he's done is incredible.
“He is someone I look up to. His passion, how long he has been in the game, how he still has that capacity to transmit a willingness to win. To keep convincing players in this environment, you have to be extraordinarily good.”
Mikel Arteta confirmed that defender Piero Hincapie will be available for Tuesday's match after recovering from a groin injury.
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