Exceptional Talent: Arsenal’s Arteta Commends Former Manchester City Associate De Bruyne

Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has shared insights during his latest press conference as he gears up to face Everton this weekend.

Once again, Arteta’s squad has suffered a setback with the news that Gabriel is sidelined for the remainder of the season. This will likely see Jakub Kiwior stepping into the starting lineup, while Thomas Partey will revert to playing as a right-back. In addressing Gabriel’s injury, the Spanish coach highlighted the challenges of coping with such a significant absence.

“It’s a difficult one to come to terms with, especially as we just welcomed Bukayo back only to lose Gabi. It’s been tough, but the team has responded as it has throughout the season. I’m genuinely proud of their resilience, and we understand that he will be out for an extended period, so we need to explore different strategies and continue competing the way we have.”

“We must do this because we’ve made significant progress, and now we’re entering the most crucial and exciting phase of the season. We need to adapt to these challenges, which means other players will have opportunities to step up, and the team must find alternative approaches. It is undoubtedly a significant loss, but we have the depth to manage it.”

Amidst these challenges, Saka’s return provides a positive boost for Arteta, who expressed his joy at seeing him back in action with a goal at the back post against Fulham midweek.

“As always happens, after enduring tough times, something lovely can surface. I believe all the effort and difficult moments he has faced over the past four months are now paying off with the love and support from everyone associated with the club.”

Arteta also weighed in on Kevin De Bruyne’s impending departure from Manchester City at the end of the season and mused on whether he would have liked to share the pitch with him during his playing days.

“He’s right up there. I can’t say if he’s the best, second best, or third best, but for me, he’s undoubtedly one of the finest players in Premier League history. I’ve never seen—nor played alongside—anyone who can execute passes with such precision at high speeds. He can sprint at 33 or 34 kilometres an hour and deliver a 30-metre pass through two defenders to exactly the right spot. I haven’t witnessed anyone else do that at such a pace.”

“Absolutely, I would have loved to play with him. I was fortunate to be part of a team where he played a pivotal role. What makes him special, beyond his technical skills, is his mental fortitude. Kevin always seeks to take risks and make things happen, and even when the odds are against him, he continues to try, which I believe sets him apart from others.”

Lastly, he reflected on his upcoming visit to Goodison Park, which will be an emotional farewell after spending several years with the Toffees throughout his career.

“It’s going to be incredibly special. There’s a rich history between the clubs, and I have my own beautiful personal narrative connected to that time, especially with the manager who has just returned and is doing exceptionally well. I’m thrilled for the club and for David, as returning for a second stint there is never straightforward.”

“In my opinion, he was the one who elevated that club to new heights, and now he’s on a journey to achieve that once more, especially as they transition to a new stadium. It’s a fundamentally heartwarming story.”