Mikel Arteta has been confirmed in a surprise new role away from his intense and demanding job at the helm of Arsenal.
It’s been a busy summer for the Spaniard this summer.
The Gunners have spent in excess of £200million, as they look to revamp their squad to take them over the Premier League finishing line first.
**ARE YOU READING THIS ON OUR APP? DOWNLOAD NOW FOR THE BEST GB NEWS EXPERIENCE**
Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke and Christian Norgaard are just some of the names that have come through the doors at the Emirates this summer.
Viktor Gyökeres joined the Gunners from Sporting Lisbon in an initial £55million deal
| GettyIt shows no signs of slowing down, either, with Arteta’s side heavily linked to other names to bolster their squad further, such as Eberechi Eze.
But it still doesn’t seem enough for Arteta, who has gone one step further and taken on a fresh new role away from the club ahead of their opening Premier League fixture away at Manchester United on Sunday.
The American sports brand Under Armour has appointed the Arsenal boss to serve as their global ambassador and director of performance.
JUST IN: Liverpool 'close to Marc Guehi agreement' with Crystal Palace for astonishing price
Under Armour have announced Mikel Arteta as a global ambassador and director of performance
|Getty
This strategic move represents the company's ambition to strengthen its presence in football.
The Spaniard will contribute his expertise across multiple areas, including product innovation, identifying emerging talent and leadership development.
His appointment signals Under Armour's commitment to expanding its football operations through high-profile partnerships.
READ MORE: Thomas Frank makes his mark as Spurs boss by axing star from the squad for 'disciplinary reasons'
A significant aspect of Arteta's responsibilities involves guiding the company's Next initiative, which focuses on nurturing young sporting talent between the ages of 16 and 20.
Arteta's involvement is expected to enhance the programme's effectiveness, particularly given his proven ability to develop young players at Arsenal.
"The collaboration with Under Armour is the perfect opportunity for me to work with a partner committed to making young athletes better," Arteta stated after the confirmation.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Mikel Arteta focused on the development of young athletes while speaking on the announcement
|Getty
"I'm passionate about providing a platform for the next generation of players coming through in football and the top level of talent already signed with the brand show that they are too."
Under Armour's founder and chief executive, Kevin Plank, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying: "Bringing Mikel on board will revolutionise our football business and demonstrates how serious we are about leading the next generation of football.
"I have a great rapport with Mikel and admire how he constantly pushes himself and those around him through his disruptive thinking. For me, there really is no one more qualified or suited to the role."
The sportswear company plans to unveil its new 'Be The Problem' football campaign this Friday.
Under Armour considers Arteta an embodiment of this campaign, citing his tactical acumen and ability to challenge opposing teams.