Ahead of the launch of Amazon Prime’s All or Nothing series, a clip of Arsenal’s long-term photographer delivering a rousing speech has gone viral on social media.
One of the most noticeable features from the already-released snippets of the documentary is Mikel Arteta’s desire to try new techniques to get the best out of his young squad.
One method saw the 40-year-old try to acclimatise his side to upcoming playing conditions by blasting You’ll Never Walk Alone before an away trip to Anfield.
This wasn’t all the boss did to fire up his Arsenal side.
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Prior to last season’s first North London Derby, it is safe to say that the Gunners were far from their best.
In an attempt to make sure the players knew exactly what was at stake before the grudge match against Spurs, Arteta entrusted club photographer Stuart MacFarlane to address the squad before kick-off.
"It’s tough. This is my club, I f*****g love this football club. I f*****g love all of you," MacFarlane passionately exclaimed.
"This is me, I’m a fan. This lot outside they would do anything to fucking win today.
"First f*****g tackle, listen to the crowd, they will f*****g be on you straight away. Win every tackle.
"When you score, look in their faces. Look at how much they love you and show them how much you love them. Okay?"
It is obvious that the group of players weren’t just listening to MacFarlane but were absorbing every last word he uttered during his goosebump-inducing speech.
At the end of his outpouring of emotions, the players and staff were fired up — ready to go into battle for the Emirates Stadium faithful.
With hindsight, it can be seen as a stroke of genius. Arteta’s side stormed home to a 3-1 victory, blowing their biggest rivals away in the process.
Goals by Hale End graduates Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith-Rowe captured the mood of MacFarlane’s speech, with fans and players together in unison charging towards their collective goal.
Following the win, Arteta was quick to thank the man who inspired the victory, giving MacFarlane a huge hug and gesturing to the crowd to get behind the Arsenal legend.
The first instalments of Arsenal’s All or Nothing series will be released on August 4, with more behind-the-scenes action to be revealed.
Topics: Mikel Arteta, Arsenal
Thomas Schlachter