Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hailed Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone as “outstanding” and a manager he “looks up to” ahead of their Champions League meeting.
Arteta, who is the second-longest serving manager in the Premier League, praised Simeone’s remarkable 14-year tenure in Spain—longer than any current English top-flight boss.
The Gunners’ manager specifically highlighted the Argentine’s passion and “extraordinary” capacity to motivate his players over such a long period.
Arteta also strongly believes Simeone has the qualities—including his “know-how” and “character”—to succeed in the Premier League, stating: “If he works in the Champions League… he can do it anywhere.”
Arteta expects a tough challenge from the disciplined and highly organized Atletico side, who will face an Arsenal team that has won its first two Champions League games without conceding.
