Shkodran Mustafi, the former Arsenal defender, recently praised Arsenal for their unwavering support of manager Mikel Arteta, likening it to Liverpool’s support of Jurgen Klopp.
His remarks come as Arsenal leads the Premier League after a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield, to leave then top at Christmas for the second year in a row.
Shkodran Mustafi, the former Arsenal defender, has praised Arsenal for their steadfast support of manager Mikel Arteta, drawing comparisons with Liverpool’s backing of Jurgen Klopp.
The Gunners, who have played 18 games so far, lead the table with 40 points, a testament to the successful strategies implemented by Arteta and the support he has received from the club.
In his remarks, Mustafi highlighted the importance of consistent backing for managers in top-flight football. “I read that the average tenure of a coach in Europe’s top five leagues is nine months. But it takes a lot longer to build something together,” he said.
He further added, “Arsenal gave Arteta time and resources to implement his ideas. Last season Arsenal were first for a long time and were runners-up, now the Gunners are top of the table again.”
Mustafi also noted the club’s unity and focus, saying, “I’m no longer as close as I was when I was at Arsenal, but I think the club has managed to get everyone in the same boat and sailing in the same direction. This is the only way to guarantee long-term success, and this is the only way you can set yourself apart from the others.”
Drawing parallels with Klopp’s journey at Liverpool, Mustafi observed, “There are parallels (with Liverpool). Klopp initially sparked euphoria, he was criticised at times, but he continuously built a foundation in Liverpool and celebrated success with his team. For me personally, this is exactly the right path.”
In his interview with skysport.de, Mustafi also reflected on Arteta’s early days at Arsenal. Mustafi recalled the initial challenges and the club’s decision to stand by Arteta.
“Arteta was signed when I was still playing in London. He had short-term success, bringing with him the breath of fresh air he had hoped for, but then Arsenal missed out on the Champions League and qualification for a European Cup for the first time in years. Many expected him to be sacked, but Arsenal stuck with him because they were confident in him and his ideas.”