Mikel Arteta has told Football London that Sokratis Papastathopoulos is a ‘very popular player’ at Arsenal prior to his departure in January.
At the start of the Premier League season, Arsenal opted against naming the centre-back in their 25-man squad, which sent out the clear message that his services were no longer required.
Whilst the 32-year-old powerhouse stayed on until the winter transfer window, his contract was cut short by six-months and he is now set to face off against his former club.
Familiar foes in Olympiacos will lock horns with Arsenal in the Europa League tonight, as the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Bukayo Saka will come up against a very familiar opponent.
Ahead of that first leg showdown tonight, Arteta shared his thoughts on Sokratis and linking up with him once again.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Papa,” said Arteta. “He is such a good character and a very popular player here.
“He was liked and loved by everybody. It was a pleasure to work with him, such a pro.
“It’s true he knows what we try to do, but there isn’t a magic formula. I’m sure he will try to do his best and we will do the same.”
It just would be something if Sokratis outperforms Arsenal’s centre-backs and the Greek side knock the Gunners out of the competition once again.
Sometimes, there’s just those nightmare teams, and for those from North London, it’s the Super League giants.
But it would show serious character from the Arsenal players if they were to dump Olympiacos out of the competition given that they have proven to be tricky opponents.
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