Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is looking forward to locking horns with his old friend Xabi Alonso, although the pleasantries will be firmly on hold for Chelsea’s visit.
The Gunners welcome their London rivals to the Emirates in an early-season clash of two of the Premier League’s big guns. Arteta and Alonso are lifelong friends, after growing up in the same town back in Spain and both were in close contact whilst players at Everton and Liverpool respectively.
Now, they’re set to face each other amid the heat of a London derby. Asked about his relationship with the new Blues’ chief, Arteta said: “I spoke to him before (he joined Chelsea). I’m really happy for him. It’s incredible because obviously we have the history that we have together, the same with Andoni (Iraola, Liverpool boss) and to be facing each other in such a level and with the responsibility we have managing some of the top clubs in the country is a really beautiful thing to experience.
“Our relationship goes on for many, many years and we share some great moments together. That’s natural, but now it’s the competition and when you face each other you know what happens.”
“Obviously, we’ve known each other for so long, we have experienced different countries, different moments and just to go abroad and deliver what he has done, the same with Andoni as well, I think it’s remarkable. It shows you that I think doing what you feel and how you feel it and being able to translate that to a club, to players, and ultimately achieve the goals that you want is possible, regardless of where you are born and where you’re from.”
Both sides go into this game in good form after collecting maximum points although in terms of team news, the Gunners may be without new signing Bruno Guimaraes although Jurrien Timber could be a welcome return to the squad.
For Chelsea, Sunday’s game throws up an intriguing sub-plot regarding Morgan Rogers. He was courted by Arsenal for much of the summer only for the Blues to gazump their rivals.
His new manager is hopeful he can continue his fine start to life at Chelsea, saying: “For sure, Morgan was a big, big one to get a player of his stature – in the present and future. He will be a key player for the next six, seven years. He’s had a great impact.”
Moises Caiceo could be fit to face the Gunners after picking up a knock against his old club Brighton last weekend. Jordan Henderson, meanwhile, is “getting closer and closer to playing time” as he awaits his debut.
