Serge Gnabry has lauded Mikel Arteta for his leadership qualities as Bayern Munich prepare to take on Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night.
The winger made his breakthrough into senior football with the Gunners when he was a teenager, but only went on to make 18 appearances in all competitions for the club before joining Werder Bremen.
Gnabry turned out to be a revelation after signing for Bayern in 2018, scoring 103 goals in 323 appearances to help the Bavarian outfit win the Champions League and seven Bundesliga titles.
The 31-year-old, who played alongside Arteta during his time in north London, says the Arsenal manager helped the younger players in the team back then.
Gnabry praises Arteta leadership ahead of Arsenal reunion
“He was a leader in the team back then, also our captain,” Gnabry said during Tuesday’s pre-match press conference.
“He talked a lot with young players like me and Hector Bellerin and always had an open ear for us. That shows what kind of personality he has. He led the team to this great success last season. He’s doing a very good job.”
On what it feels like to face his old side, Gnabry added: “It’s always a special game against a former club. I grew up there and I’m really looking forward to it.
“We last played at the Emirates. It’s a bit strange to play against a coach you used to play with. We want to win, that’s what it’s all about. I’m looking forward to the game.”
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