Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has opened up about his past teammates, singling out Nigerian legends Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha and Haruna Babangida – www.isagoal.com reports.
The Spaniard shared the memories during a lighthearted Sport Bible interview where he answered quick-fire questions about his football journey.
Arteta, who wore the colors of PSG, Barcelona, and Rangers before the Premier League, admitted Okocha was among the most talented players he ever worked with.
When pressed to choose the most skillful teammate of his career, Arteta replied, “It’s difficult between Ronaldinho and Okocha, because both were unbelievable with the ball.”
The Arsenal boss revealed that Okocha’s creativity and flair left a mark on him that still stands years later.
Switching to fashion, Arteta jokingly threw Haruna Babangida under the bus as the “worst-dressed” teammate he encountered in his playing days.
Babangida, once tipped for greatness after coming through Barcelona’s La Masia academy, was remembered by Arteta more for his outfits than his football.
Turning attention to Arsenal’s present, Arteta urged his squad to build on their victory over Manchester United as they prepare for Leeds United.
The Gunners currently sit seventh on the table with three points but will face Leeds without Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
Summer signing Viktor Gyökeres is expected to carry attacking responsibility in their upcoming Premier League clash.