Arsenal achieved what very few have managed: eliminating Real Madrid in Europe without any trouble. The English dominated the tie from start to finish, leaving a solid and convincing impression. The difference between the two teams was noticeable during the 180 minutes.
Arteta surprised with his tactical approach
Mikel Arteta designed a brilliant plan to stop Real Madrid. The Spanish coach nullified the white team's strengths and controlled the pace of the match. His Arsenal not only defended well but also knew how to attack dangerously.
High pressure, constant support, and order were key in the duel. Arteta managed to disconnect Real Madrid's great offensive stars. Rarely has the white team been so outplayed at Bernabéu.
A merit that Arteta doesn't fully attribute to himself
Despite the euphoria, Arteta wanted to downplay his role. After the match, he made statements that surprised many. He stated that he had a very special conversation before the decisive match.
It wasn't a meeting with his coaching staff or his locker room. Arteta decided to seek advice from someone who knows Real Madrid very well. According to him, it was a decisive conversation.
Pep Guardiola: The most Barça help to topple Real Madrid
The man in question was Pep Guardiola, his friend and mentor. Mikel confessed that he called the current Manchester City coach beforehand. Guardiola gave him important keys to face the match at Bernabéu.
"I asked him how to face these types of matches, his experience helped me a lot," Arteta acknowledged humbly. Guardiola, a Barcelona legend and historical enemy of Real Madrid, was an invisible piece in the tie.
Guardiola: The master behind the success
Arteta trained as a coach under Pep's wing at City. They both share a philosophy based on ball control and tactical intelligence. The respect between them is absolute and is evident in every public conversation.
Guardiola conveyed very specific tactical details to stop Real Madrid. Arteta applied those teachings with surgical precision. The final result speaks for itself: Real Madrid wasn't able to score a single goal.
The conversation between Arteta and Guardiola was key to shaping the strategy. Arsenal's execution was perfect, and that speaks well of the prior work. Arteta doesn't hesitate to point to Guardiola as a decisive figure.
The learning continues for Arteta
Despite the success, Arteta is still in the process of learning. He knows he still has a way to go, but he is clear about whom to turn to in important moments. Guardiola, with his experience, is his best advisor.
Arsenal is already in the semifinals, and Arteta wants to continue making history. With his style, his audacity, and the support of his mentor, everything seems possible. Real Madrid was the first victim, but it may not be the last.