Mikel Arteta reveals SURPRISE inspiration early in his managerial career

Mikel Arteta says he took inspiration from Ted Lasso during the early stages of his management career.

The Spaniard was announced as Arsenal manager back in December 2019, just before Covid restrictions put the United Kingdom on lockdown.

Ted Lasso was a hit with audiences seeking to fill their time during the winter lockdowns, first airing in mid-2020, and has been praised for its positivity as well as its emotional messaging.

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The show, starring Jason Sudeikis, follows the fortunes of a fictional American football coach who takes over AFC Richmond.

It has been a multiple award-winning show, earning the 2021 Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series while Sudeikis took home a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy.

"I really loved Ted Lasso," Arteta told Stadium Astro. "It was during Covid, it was when I started my managerial career, and I just looked at my profession, our industry, from a different angle, different perception, and in a different way. I think it was great for me to watch it.

"Sometimes we take ourselves too seriously and suddenly there is another way of doing things, that can be very, very effective as well, and it was a good learning [sic]."

The Gunners’ boss also disclosed that some among the show’s stars are fans of his club and he hosted the at the Emirates.

"Some of them are big Arsenal fans and they've been here," Arteta said. "It was great."

Arteta an immediate hit at Arsenal

Arteta was an immediate hit as Arsenal coach, winning the FA Cup at his first attempt, and has led his side to title chases in each of the last two seasons.

They missed out on the title last term to Manchester City but are in the mix with City and leaders Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table this term.

Arsenal transfer news

Arsenal are expected to be active ahead of the summer with a contract renewal in the works for Jorginho and Thomas Partey in line for one last chance to save his career.

Meanwhile, club accounts have shown the devastating impact of Nicolas Pepe's signing under Unai Emery.

It has also been revealed that Mykhailo Mudryk was determined to push through a move to the Emirates Stadium right up until the last minute.

And one ex-Gunner, Donyell Malen, admits it would be a "dream" to return to the club. He has been starring for Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga.