When it comes to inspiring his players and attracting top talent, Mikel Arteta isn’t afraid to think outside the box.
The Arsenal boss has become known for his unconventional coaching methods, using creative and sometimes bizarre tactics to strengthen his team’s mentality and performance.
From hiring pickpockets to improve players’ awareness to bringing a dog named ‘Win’ to the training ground, Arteta’s strategies are anything but ordinary.
How Arteta Won Over Riccardo Calafiori
One of Arteta’s most intriguing methods recently came to light when Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal’s £42 million summer signing from Bologna, revealed the unique way the manager convinced him to join the club.
In an interview with the Italian outlet Rivista Undici e Cronache, the defender shared a particularly personal interaction with Arteta.
During a phone call, the Arsenal manager sent Calafiori photos of his family and asked him to describe what each family member meant to him.
This deeply personal approach left a lasting impression on the Italian star.
“I had never experienced anything like that before,” Calafiori admitted.
“It wasn’t the only reason I chose Arsenal, but it was certainly a key moment.”
Arteta’s Impact on Player Development
Since taking over in 2019, Arteta has made significant strides in developing players, even though the Premier League title has remained elusive.
His ability to nurture talent and convince top players to join Arsenal has played a vital role in the club’s resurgence.
Calafiori, despite facing injury setbacks this season, has managed to make 26 appearances across all competitions, sharing left-back duties with rising star Myles Lewis-Skelly and Oleksandr Zinchenko.
One of his standout moments came when he scored a crucial equalizer against Manchester City, helping Arsenal secure a 2-2 draw at the Etihad.
A Versatile Defender with Big Ambitions
Though primarily used as a left-back, Calafiori was brought in for his versatility, capable of playing at center-back as well.
The 22-year-old acknowledges that he still has much to learn and credits Arteta, along with Italy manager Luciano Spalletti and former Bologna boss Thiago Motta, for shaping his game.
“Thiago Motta, Spalletti, and Arteta have all transformed my understanding of football—where to position myself, how to read the game,” he said.
“I know I still have a lot to improve, which is why I work so much off the pitch.”
Interestingly, Calafiori has set his sights on adding another position to his skillset.
“For now, I feel comfortable in two roles, but I’d love to learn a third: midfielder. It’s always been a position that fascinates me.”
Arteta’s Influence Continues to Grow
As Arsenal continues to challenge at the highest level, Arteta’s innovative coaching methods are proving to be a game-changer.
His ability to connect with players on a personal level and push them to evolve is turning Arsenal into a more formidable force.
Whether through sentimental gestures or unconventional training techniques, Arteta’s approach is setting a new standard for modern football management.