Speaking ahead of the Gunners' Saturday evening clash with Aston Villa, Arteta told media Friday: "My time with Raheem was exceptional. We built a really strong relationship together. He was unbelievable at the time we were together. He taught me a lot as well, about individuals, how they, players think, how we support them. He is someone I have really strong feelings about."
Arsenal will finalise the deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino Friday, and could also rubberstamp Eddie Nketiah's €37m exit to Nottm Forest. On ins and outs at the Emirates, Arteta added: "I cannot talk about any player that is not with us. There is still time in the market, both ways, for all the managers of the teams here and you can tell how busy it's getting.
"I don't assume. Full focus is on the players at the moment, on the big match tomorrow at Aston Villa. I expect Eddie to train with us today and be ready for tomorrow. Whatever happens, will happen."
Villa were a big reason Arsenal came up shy of Man City in last season's Premier League race, losing home and away. How did Unai Emery get one over on his compatriot?
"They scored and we didn't - very simple. In two games even though we had an enormous amount of chances to do that and that was one of the big differences, one of the details we have analysed. We have to do better tomorrow. They are a really good side, really well coached.
"They dominate every aspect of the game. When you give them space they run they are phenomenal and when they have to find space they are able to do that. Set pieces they highlighted - that's why they did what they did [last season]."
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