
In the first part of an exclusive interview, Real Betis star HĂ©ctor BellerĂn reflects on his belief in Mikel Arteta and shares his joy at seeing Arsenal’s resurgence after some difficult times. BellerĂn, who played alongside Arteta before the latter retired and took over as Arsenalâs manager, also speaks highly of Bukayo Saka.
Although the conversation with TNT Sports during the international break wasnât initially about Arsenal, BellerĂn couldnât help but mention Arteta when discussing his own future in football.
âI have to say that I donât want to get into coaching,” BellerĂn explained. “But I really enjoy understanding the game, and my time with Mikel was like a masterclass. The way he viewed football, even before working with Pep [Guardiola], was on a different level. I learned so much from him.â
While now settled in Seville, itâs clear BellerĂn still has a deep connection to Arsenal. He recalls how his journey to north London began in 2011 when, at 16, he was considering a career in psychology. Then, Arsenal came calling, and his life took a different path.
BellerĂnâs electric pace made an immediate impact in the Premier League, and by the 2015/16 season, he was a key figure in ArsĂšne Wengerâs side, earning a spot in the PFA Team of the Season. However, a devastating ACL injury in 2018 forced him to reassess his career.
âIâd played over 150 games for Arsenal and won trophies, but I hadnât had a moment to stop and reflect,â he said. âThe injury gave me that time. I began writing about my experiences, and itâs something I still do to this day.â
BellerĂn also recalls how, even as Artetaâs playing career was coming to an end, it was clear he had a brilliant footballing mind. âMikel was always very intelligent. He had a unique way of seeing the game, positioning himself, and helping others around him,â he said.
As Arteta transitioned into management, BellerĂn had no doubts about his ability to rebuild Arsenal. âI never doubted heâd be able to create a successful team,â he said. âTheyâre competing with Manchester City now, and thatâs a testament to his work.â
BellerĂn is especially excited about the potential of Arsenalâs young squad, highlighting Saka in particular. âItâs crazy to think Saka isnât even in his prime yet. Heâs already better than most players at their peak,â he said.
Reflecting on the similarities between Wenger and Arteta, BellerĂn praised the way Arteta respects Arsenalâs history while carving his own path. âMikel is writing his own chapter, but heâs always mindful of the clubâs legacy. Heâs created a team that doesnât play exactly like Wengerâs, but the essence is still there.â
For BellerĂn, Arsenalâs current success is deeply personal. âIt makes me incredibly happy to see where Arsenal is today,â he said. âI feel so lucky to have been part of that club, and every year I appreciate more and more how special it was.â
As he continues his career in Spain, BellerĂn remains closely connected to his former club, regularly watching games and keeping in touch with his former teammates. âIâm always going to be very attached to Arsenal,â he said. âI wish them all the success in the world because they truly deserve it.â
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