Arteta: I am very satisfied with this summer's transfer business, but the final judgment comes at the end of the season

Before Arsenal's Premier League third-round home match against Chelsea, Arteta spoke to Sky Sports about his friendship with Xabi Alonso and Arsenal's summer transfer window.

Hello, Mikel. I want to show you these photos. You have seen them before, but they show how long your friendship has lasted.

Yes, it is beautiful.

Have we not talked enough about this? You have many friends in football, but this is a lifelong friendship from childhood, almost like brothers, right?

Yes. The paths we have taken and where we are today are incredible.

You were very young in that photo, around 11 or 12 years old, right?

It was a tournament in France. I think that was actually the first time we competed together.

At that stage, did either of you dream of becoming elite Premier League coaches as well as top players?

Our only dream then was to become professional players one day.

What brought you together?

We were close, lived nearby and played for the same team.

What does he have that you like and admire? Anything you dislike?

(Laughs) No. The competitive side and Sunday's match are clear.

You had not faced his team as a manager before, right?

No, only once in pre-season when he was at Leverkusen.

What will it feel like to face your close friend in a Premier League match?

I have experienced that with other close friends too.

How difficult is that?

Honestly, it is simple.

Did he speak with you much before taking the Chelsea job?

No, it happened very quickly and those matters were extremely private.

Do you see the same creativity and search for details in him?

Every club is trying to find small advantages and ways to improve.

Are you surprised by Chelsea's quick progress under him?

No, I am not surprised. Chelsea have the scale, squad and Xabi's ability.

How happy are you that the transfer window has closed?

We worked fully since the window opened. We showed ambition and built the right process; the result must be judged at the end of the season.

Did you approach Vinicius or Alvarez?

I will never talk about players who do not belong to our team.

The fact people discuss Arsenal pursuing this level of player shows the club's position.

It reflects the club's direction and ambition.

You previously said you were happier with this season's squad. Why?

I did not say I was happier. We are better equipped in squad depth, especially in areas affected by injuries before.

How important is squad versatility?

It is very important because we face multiple competitions and need players who can cover several positions.

Several players left this summer. Is telling close players to find a new path one of football's hardest conversations?

First, you thank them for everything they did for the club and team, but football has beginnings and endings.

What is your plan for the left side after several forwards left?

We must prove we have everything needed to win matches after these departures.