Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has explained the key role that Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has had in his career.

Speaking in the build-up to Chelsea’s game against Arsenal this weekend, Arteta said Pochettino took him “under his wing” during their time together at Paris Saint-German and the Blues boss has been his “role model” ever since:

“He has been one of the most influential people in my career as a player. He took me under his wing and he looked after me like a little child. A little brother. He was a big part of the success I had in Paris.”

“He has been a role model for me since that day, not only as a player but as a manager as well. He had a big say on that and I will always be grateful for what he has done for me.”

Friends and rivals at the same time

You don’t expect rival managers to be so complimentary about each other heading into a fiercely contested London derby, but it appears there is no chance of the two men butting heads.

Arteta clearly sees Pochettino as a mentor and the the respect that the Arsenal manager has for his former teammate two decades after playing alongside each other is a testament to the Chelsea head coach’s character.

Considering they were only together for one season, before Arteta moved to Rangers, Pochettino obviously left a lasting impression in a very short space of time.

Chelsea will be the underdogs

Despite Arteta looking up to Pochettino, the away side will be favorites heading into Saturday evening’s match.

The Blues did look in good form before the international break but this is arguably the home team’s biggest test of the season so far, and we shall have to see whether Pochettino can get one over his former apprentice.

Watch a recap of Gameweek 8 in the Premier League on Shots! TV here