Arteta expects Maresca to do ‘unbelievable job’ at Man City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed strong confidence in Enzo Maresca, endorsing him to achieve an "unbelievable job" as the new manager of Manchester City. Maresca steps into the role vacated by Pep Guardiola, who concluded his highly successful 10-year spell at the club last season.

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First of all for the Premier League, I think for the country, I think the way he has opened a different way of understanding the game. Here, I think he has escalated the Premier League to a different level.

Arteta, who previously served as Guardiola's assistant at City, paid tribute to his former boss during a press conference. He lauded Guardiola's influence on the Premier League, stating, "I think for the country, I think the way he has opened a different way of understanding the game. Here, I think he has escalated the Premier League to a different level." Arteta described Guardiola's impact as "remarkable and unique," calling him "the best coach in the history of football" for his achievements across different countries and methods.

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I was very lucky to be part of that for four years and understand and witness how it’s done daily. I think it’s remarkable and unique.

Guardiola's departure follows a season where City won the FA Cup and League Cup but finished as Premier League runners-up to Arteta's Arsenal. Arteta acknowledged Guardiola would be missed in the league but looks forward to the transition under Maresca. "It’s been a pleasure and now it’s Enzo. I know him well and he will provide something different to the club," Arteta said.

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I would say that he’s the best coach in the history of football. For many reasons, he’s done it in different countries, in different ways. So, I think he will be missed in the Premier League.

Arteta is convinced of Maresca's capabilities, noting, "What I know is that Enzo has the personality, the character, and especially the knowledge to have an unbelievable job there." He highlighted Maresca's proven track record at various levels, including his time at Chelsea and in the Champions League, as reasons for his selection. Arteta also confirmed that England internationals Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, along with new signings Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis, are likely to feature in the upcoming Community Shield match against City.

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It’s been a pleasure and now it’s Enzo. I know him well and he will provide something different to the club.