Mikel Arteta Admits To Having Conflicting Feelings While Watching Euro 2024 Final

By The Editor
on 23rd July 2024

Arteta saw his native Spain lift the cup but at the expense of his players…

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted to having conflicting feelings while watching the Euro 2024 final as his native Spain defeated England.

Speaking ahead of our first pre-season fixture in the United States against Bournemouth, Arteta spoke of his delight at seeing Spain crowned European champions once again – but quickly had some sorrow for his players.

Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Aaron Ramsdale were in the squad for the final in Berlin, with the former duo visibly distraught at the final whistle.

Saka was reduced to tears as Spanish players and fellow teammates attempted to console him after England couldn’t get over the final hurdle to right the wrongs of Euro 2020.

Arteta also has a soft spot for England, considering that he’s spent most of his life in Britain having arrived in Scotland in 2003. The 42-year-old enjoyed the rest of his playing career on these shores and subsequently transitioned into a coaching role.

The Spaniard infamously came close to switching allegiances during his career to represent England under Fabio Capello, but that fell through due to a legal obstacle.

“I’m extremely proud of my country, and it was a great moment for us to win,” the manager explained to the press.

“This generation had to really earn it in the last few years to get that belief. At the same time, I was sad because you love your players and you want the best for them, and it was a tough moment for them.”

When asked about his feelings regarding Saka’s tournament, especially when he stepped up to take a penalty against Switzerland – Arteta summed up the thoughts of all Arsenal fans during that moment.

“I was very nervous. It plays back in your mind from a few years ago and that moment but he showed a lot of guts and determination and composure to take it the way he did.

“His role is constantly growing and evolving. He is a super important player for Arsenal and one of the main players for the national team, and at his age that’s a really rare thing to see,” he added.