Manchester City boss, Pep Guardiola, has said Mikel Arteta never celebrated goals against Arsenal while he worked as his assistant.
Arteta spent over three years as Guardiola’s assistant between 2016-2019.
During their spell together, City won two Premier League titles.
Before then, Arteta had made 150 appearances for the Gunners between 2011 and 2016, where he was eventually appointed captain.
In December 2019, Arteta was hired as Arsenal’s new manager.
Ahead of their face-off in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday, Guardiola admits he always knew of his compatriot’s love for the North London club.
“I know he went to his club. The team he dreams of.
“He’s a supporter, he was a captain there. He loves the club. I remember here when we scored goals he jumped a lot except against one team.
“He was sitting there – it was Arsenal. I said, “that guy likes Arsenal.” Like here, if I’m training as assistant and Barcelona calls me, I go,” Guardiola told reporters on Thursday.
