Mikel Arteta helped former Super Eagles star Austin Jay Jay Okocha thrive at Paris Saint-Germain, French football expert Matt Spiro claims, highlighting the impact the now-Arsenal boss had while playing for the French giants.
In 2001-2002, Arteta came to PSG on a loan from Barcelona, while Okocha had been a member of the team since 1998.
Spiro stated that Arteta’s contribution was essential to his teammates’ success since it allowed them to express themselves creatively.
He lauded Arteta’s qualities from his time at Ligue 1 side, pointing out how the Spaniard’s work ethic and tactical knowledge fostered the growth of creative players like Okocha.
Spiro reveals Arteta’s role in Okocha’s success at PSG
His ability to link plays and manage the midfield allowed the more attacking players to play to their full potential, resulting in a productive and dynamic team atmosphere.
“Fernandez asked him to play simply and help provide a platform for more creative talents like Okocha, and he carried it out brilliantly,” Spiro told BBC Sport.
“Arteta was a quiet man but already displayed the steely determination we see in him today. Like most Barcelona players he was technically excellent, but the most surprising and impressive aspect of his game, given his age, was his tactical awareness.”
Jay-Jay Okocha played 113 games for PSG before relocating to the English Premier League to play for Bolton.
Mikel Arteta, on the other hand, made 53 appearances for the French club before returning to Barcelona and eventually joining Rangers.
The 41-year-old manager will lead his Arsenal’s side against his former club PSG, who will be without star man Ousmane Dembele, for this Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League encounter at the Emirates Stadium.
The Spanish manager will look to secure all three points on Tuesday as his team seeks a maiden win in the competition, having played out a goalless draw against Atalanta on matchday one.
