Is Mikel Arteta following in Jurgen Klopp's footsteps? Ex-Arsenal star sees similarities to Liverpool coach

The World Cup-winning German defender, who played under Arteta's tutelage at Arsenal for a year, claimed that he sees similarities between the Gunners' boss and Liverpool manager Klopp. The 31-year-old also stated that the Spanish manager has brought stability to the club and urged them to continue with him to achieve long-term success.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Mustafi said: "I'm no longer as close as I was when I was at Arsenal, but I think the club has managed to get everyone in the same boat and sailing in the same direction. This is the only way to guarantee long-term success and this is the only way you can set yourself apart from the others. Clubs have more and more resources, you can put together a team that might be better in the short term, but in the long term, it is important that you keep what you have created. Then it's about details and titles.

"There are parallels. Klopp initially sparked euphoria, he was criticised at times, but he continuously created a foundation in Liverpool and celebrated success with his team. For me, this is exactly the right path."

Arteta returned to Arsenal in December 2019 as their manager after working as an assistant under Pep Guardiola for three years at Manchester City. In the four years he has been in charge of the north London club, he won an FA Cup and two Community Shield titles. The club came very close to winning the Premier League last season only to lose out to Manchester City in the end and are currently top of the table.

Although Arteta has been credited for the club's recent rise in form, the Spaniard himself claimed that he is far from being content as he aims to win the Premier League and the Champions League.

The two sides are set to lock horns in a top-of-the-table Premier League at Anfield on Saturday. Klopp's side will aim to get back to winning ways and reclaim their position at the top after a frustrating goalless draw at home against Manchester United last weekend.