Arteta ‘proud’ to achieve ‘double reward’ with FA Cup win

Mikel Arteta said he was proud to represent Arsenal after guiding them to their 14th FA Cup triumph – and his first as a manager.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored a brace to bring Arsenal back from behind after Christian Pulisic had given their rivals the lead.

Arsenal rallied back into the game, though, and got the win to end a mixed season on a high note. They qualify for the Europa League as a result.

Arteta revealed after the game how impressed he was by their spirit to come back into the game and hold on.

He told BBC Sport: “It was a difficult start when we conceded so early. If I know something about these players, is that we weren’t going to give up.

“We played probably the best 30 minutes after since I arrived. I am so proud to represent these players and this club.

“It is a double reward for us. It is really important for this club in every way to be in Europe. We all did it so I am so happy.

“The players were completely knackered and they made a massive effort through the coronavirus to keep fit so I am so happy for them.”

While Aubameyang played a starring role, there are fears that it may have been his last game for the club.

The Gabonese striker is out of contract next year, meaning Arsenal face a race against time to keep him. But Arteta is hopeful that they will be able to, after promising to build a team around him.

“He knows what I think about him. I want to build the squad around him,” Arteta insisted. “I think he wants to stay and it is just about getting the deal done.

“But I think these moments will help him to realise and believe that we are in the right path and he is a big part of that. He is loved by everybody at the club. Hopefully he can continue with us.”

Asked for a definitive answer if Aubameyang would sign up, Arteta replied: “I think he will, yes.”