Arsenal defender Pablo Mari has claimed that Mikel Arteta's philosophy and ideas are "very similar" to that of his former mentor Pep Guardiola.

Arteta took on the role of Gunners head coach in December 2019 after spending time under Guardiola's wing at Manchester City and won the FA Cup in his first half-season in charge of the club.

Mari fell out of favour under Arteta and was shipped out on loan to Udinese in the January transfer window, but the centre-back has nevertheless been singing the praises of his compatriot.

Speaking to Marca, Mari said: "I haven't had any luck at Arsenal, but when I've been on the pitch, I think I've given a very good level. In the end, there comes a point where you have to make decisions.

"Arteta is one of the best managers I've come across. He helped me a lot to understand football better. It's an idea very similar to Guardiola's, but with its nuances.

"Guardiola is one of the great coaches in history. Soccer players always want to be close to people like that because they grow tremendously as soccer players and as people."

Arteta's Arsenal deal is due to expire in 2023 but he will supposedly be rewarded with a new contract if he steers the Gunners to a top-six finish in the Premier League this season.

Mari has made 22 appearances for Arsenal under Arteta and made his Udinese debut in a 2-0 win over Torino on Sunday. body check tags ::