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When The Athletic revealed last month that Mikel Arteta hired professional pickpockets to steal valuables from his Arsenal players during a team dinner last season, it sparked plenty of curiosity. Kevin Balvers, who was the club’s head of methodology for three years before moving to PSV Eindhoven, shares an inside look at the unconventional tactics used by Arteta to prepare his team for games.
Before a crucial game against Liverpool, Balvers recalls how Mikel Arteta orchestrated a clever “activation” session using pickpockets to simulate the rival team’s tactics. This innovative approach helped align the players’ mindset with the strategies Arteta had in mind for the match, showcasing his unique coaching style.
Balvers describes how Arteta’s methods extended beyond the pitch, reshaping the culture and mindset of the entire club. From motivational brain games to visual presentations, Arteta’s attention to detail and creativity left a lasting impact on the players and staff at Arsenal.
Despite the challenges of being away from home, Balvers cherished his time at Arsenal, where he played a crucial role in implementing Arteta’s vision. His departure to PSV marked the end of a chapter, but Arsenal players now have a legacy of innovative training methods and motivational strategies to guide them on their quest for Premier League glory.
As we await the next chapter in Arsenal’s journey, let’s reflect on the creative genius of Mikel Arteta and the lasting impact he has left on the club.
(Top photos: Getty Images; design: Eamonn Dalton)
