Arteta says he fell for Benfica target at first sight | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta had plenty of praise for Bernardo Silva, a Benfica target, in the build-up to the clash between Arsenal and Manchester City, recalling the admiration he has had for the Portugal international since the days when he worked with Pep Guardiola in Manchester, highlighting the impact the midfielder made from their very first contact.

"He is an incredible player and an incredible person as well. The first time I saw him live was in a PSG - Monaco match and I immediately fell in love with him, not only because of the way he plays, but because of the way he competes, the way he lifts the game. He is a great lad, he gives his best in any circumstance. One of those players who I believe has made his mark on Premier League history".

In a decisive week in the Premier League title race, Arteta also highlighted the importance of the current European moment: "It was a great night, one that gives us momentum. Being among the best European clubs is something very important and we have not been there often. We value that and I give enormous credit to the players for what they have done. We have to use that fuel and that energy for Sunday for the big game we have to play".

The Gunners manager also underlined Arsenal's ambition at this stage of the season: "We have earned the right to be in this position, with the opportunity to win on Sunday, possibly against the best team and the best manager this league has ever seen. It is a huge privilege and we cannot wait for the game".

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.