EPL: Arteta finally speaks on not replacing Wenger at Arsenal

Manchester City assistant coach, Mikel Arteta, has said he has no regrets missing out on succeeding Arsene Wenger at Arsenal.

Arteta was a firm favourite to replace the Frenchman, who stepped down after 22 years at the club.

However, the Gunners opted for former Paris Saint-Germain manager, Unai Emery.

Arteta, speaking at a press conference ahead of their Champions League tie against Lyon on Wednesday, said he was not bothered, because he was convinced City have the best squad in world football.

“For me, we have the best players in the world and I look at our players as if they are the best.

“I look at the players, I see how they behave, how they react. The positives, negatives, their qualities and weaknesses. They are absolutely fantastic. The hunger in this group is incredible.

“I wouldn’t change my players for any others.

“They are absolutely fantastic; the hunger is this group is incredible. People talk about the money there is to spend. But people have to look inside this club, at what we have created – it’s phenomenal.

“I don’t believe that [City’s spending power] is the reason people think we can challenge for the Champions League. I think the reason is how consistent we have been and the way we play against big teams.

“But it’s a very difficult competition and against Lyon I’m sure we’ll face a tough game,” he said.