Mikel Arteta owes much of his development as a footballer to David Moyes, who signed him for Everton and gave him the opportunity to establish himself in the Premier League. That move proved an important step in the Spaniard’s career, allowing him to develop into a highly regarded midfielder before eventually earning a transfer to Arsenal.
Arteta later joined the Gunners under Arsene Wenger, who recognised his importance to the team and trusted him to play a key role. His contribution in north London helped shape the experience he would later bring to management, as he began his transition from the pitch to the dugout.
Today, Arteta leads Arsenal, while Wenger has stepped away from management and Moyes continues to coach Everton, the club where Arteta once played under him. Their paths have taken different directions, but the Arsenal boss has maintained considerable respect for the man who helped him progress in English football.
Arteta reflects on Moyes’ influence
Arteta has developed into one of the leading managers in the Premier League and has enjoyed success in his coaching career. However, he has not forgotten the influence Moyes had on him during their time together at Everton, and he remains full of admiration for the experienced Scottish manager.
Their latest meeting in the league provides another opportunity for the two to face each other from opposite sides of the touchline. Arsenal will be determined to secure victory, but the Gunners know that Everton will provide a difficult test as they look to achieve their objectives.
Moyes’ longevity in the game has earned him recognition across English football, and Arteta believes his contribution extends beyond his achievements on the pitch. The Arsenal manager has also emphasised the personal qualities that have shaped his opinion of his former coach.

(Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images)
Arsenal manager praises Everton boss
Ahead of the fixture, Arteta was asked whether Moyes could be considered the king of the Premier League. Speaking via Arsenal Media, he praised the Everton manager’s longevity, influence and coaching ability, while making clear that his respect goes beyond football.
“100%; I don’t know if it’s the king or what it is, but he’s certainly someone that I think we all look up to. Not only for his longevity, but I think what he represents for the game, what he represents for the Premier League, and his trajectory. For me especially, because I know the man behind the coach, which is the most important thing, and then I really know as well the coach, and he’s a superb coach.”
Arteta’s comments underline the lasting relationship between the two men. Although they now occupy opposing dugouts, the Arsenal boss continues to value Moyes’ influence on his career and recognises the qualities that have kept him involved in the Premier League for so many years.
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