Mikel Arteta assumes new role away from Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been named global ambassador and director of performance at Under Armour, taking on a role that will combine football expertise with the sportswear brand’s push to develop the next generation of athletes.

Arteta will work closely with the American company on product development, talent identification and leadership initiatives.

His appointment is central to Under Armour’s strategy to expand its influence in football and strengthen its presence among emerging players.

A major part of his brief will be to lead the brand’s Next programme, launched in 2023 to inspire and support athletes aged 16 to 20 aiming to break through into elite sport.

The initiative offers participants the chance to earn a place on the Under Armour Next roster, with access to pro-level facilities, expert coaching and tailored support to accelerate their careers.

More than 10,000 athletes have already been tested under the scheme, with 18 signing contracts with Under Armour so far.

Under Armour believes Arteta’s track record at Arsenal, where he has integrated and developed young talents like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, makes him the ideal figure to guide the programme’s growth.

Speaking about the partnership, Arteta said the collaboration aligned perfectly with his own values. ‘I’m passionate about providing a platform for the next generation of players coming through in football,’ he said.

‘We share the same mentality in always striving for more by finding new ways to innovate and disrupt the game at the top level. Our values in pursuing greatness are closely aligned and together, I’m confident we’re going to achieve great things in football.’

Under Armour founder and CEO Kevin Plank said Arteta’s appointment reflected the brand’s ambition. ‘Bringing Mikel on board will revolutionise our football business and demonstrates how serious we are about leading the next generation of football,’ he said.

‘I 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 announcement comes ahead of Under Armour’s new football campaign, Be The Problem, which launches on Friday.

The company says Arteta embodies the campaign’s ethos through his tactical approach and constant search for ways to challenge opponents.

For Arsenal’s manager, the role offers a platform to influence the game beyond the touchline, while reinforcing his reputation as a leader invested in football’s future stars.

The post Mikel Arteta assumes new role away from Arsenal first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.