A new battle between two childhood friends: Arteta vs. Alonso

A childhood friendship spanning many years. From playing football together on the sands of San Sebastian, Spain, to facing off as opponents in the Merseyside derby in England, Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso's relationship has always been a bit different.

One played for Everton, the other was a star of Liverpool. Given the eternal rivalry between the two clubs, it was the wisest thing for them to do at that time to keep their friendship private.

Two decades later, the two old friends are meeting again, but this time not as footballers. At the age of 44, both are now established names in the world of coaching. Mikel Arteta in the Arsenal dugout, and Xabi Alonso in charge of Chelsea. Today, a new duel of two Spanish minds begins in a high-voltage Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta and Alonso's football journey began with the small club 'Antiguoco' in San Sebastian. Another familiar face who came out of the same youth club, Andoni Iraola, is currently coaching in the Premier League.

Alonso has won numerous major titles for Liverpool, Real Madrid and the Spanish national team during his playing career. On the other hand, Arteta has built a long professional career from the Barcelona academy to Rangers, Everton and Arsenal. However, despite the rivalry on the field, their friendship in private life has never weakened.

Arteta once said about their relationship that a line had to be drawn between professional football and personal relationships. It was not always easy to show friendship in public, especially when playing for rival clubs.

Alonso has now taken charge of Chelsea after making history by winning the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen. Many also see Chelsea as one of Arsenal's main title rivals with a strong squad.

Praising Alonso's coaching success, Arteta said that his friend's achievements abroad are extraordinary. The success that Alonso has achieved with his faith and courage deserves praise. Considering the quality of Chelsea's current squad, the Arsenal coach did not rule out the possibility of them being in the title fight.

However, the friendship off the field will not have any impact on the fight at the Emirates today. Although the opportunity to spend time together has decreased due to busy schedules, the friendship remains intact.

The matter is best expressed in Arteta's words - the relationship will remain as it was. But after entering the field, both are competitors. And neither is willing to give an inch to the other in a face-to-face fight.

Today, not only Arsenal vs. Chelsea, but a new battle of tactics is starting between the two childhood friends at the Emirates.