Former Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini, now 39, recently revealed that he misses his four-man “wolf pack” at Arsenal the most from football.

• Mathieu Flamini misses his four-man “wolf pack” at Arsenal, which consisted of Cesc Fabregas, Alexander Hleb, and Tomas Rosicky.
• The former French international played a protective role in the midfield, both on and off the pitch, for his close friends and teammates.
• Now a successful businessman and CEO of GF Biochemicals, Flamini still cherishes his memories at Arsenal and has even hinted at potentially making a bid to buy the club in the future.

Mathieu Flamini spent seven years with the Gunners across two spells, creating lasting friendships with some of his teammates.

During his time at the club, Flamini formed close bonds with Cesc Fabregas, Alexander Hleb, and Tomas Rosicky.

The quartet made up the “wolf pack” as they took care of each other both on and off the pitch.

Flamini told The Athletic, “We were super close, both on and off the pitch. This was our wolf pack.”

The former French international went on to explain their dynamic: “We took care of each other, we looked after each other, we protected each other in a midfield which was very technical but also very offensive.” Flamini’s role in the team was to play further back, ensuring the protection of his teammates.

Flamini made 246 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 13 goals and earning three senior caps for France.

After his first stint with the Gunners, he spent five seasons at AC Milan from 2008 to 2013, winning Serie A in 2010-11. He recalled being “struck by the humility” of the Milan players, particularly Paolo Maldini, when he first joined the Italian club.

Following his time with Crystal Palace and Getafe, Flamini retired from football at the age of 35. He has since transitioned to the role of CEO at GF Biochemicals, a company focused on creating sustainable alternatives to oil-based products. Despite his new career path, Flamini still cherishes his memories at Arsenal and the close friendships he formed during his time there.

The former midfielder, now a reported billionaire with his company valued at £10 billion, has even hinted at the possibility of making a bid to buy Arsenal in the future, although more seems to be being made of that than what was intended.

But, there’s no doubt that as he continues to find success in the business world, Flamini’s connection to the club remains strong, with his “wolf pack” days holding a special place in his heart.