Mikel Arteta has received a prestigious Spanish honour from his homeland by being bestowed with The Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic.
The award is a Spanish civil order of chivalry and honour and is granted by the King of Spain and the Grand Chancellor, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. It has been a highly selective and rare accolade since its inception in 1815, only awarded to people and institutions for their extraordinary services to Spain, or the promotion of international relations and cooperation with other nations.
Mikel was presented with the order at the Spanish Embassy in London today, with his family, friends and key personnel from Arsenal in attendance to share the moment with him.
Afterwards Mikel said: “I am both humbled and honoured to receive The Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic. I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of myself and my family to send my sincere gratitude and thanks to the King of Spain and the Grand Chancellor, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
“It is a truly wonderful moment to accept this award today at the Embassy of Spain in London, together with so many people who have been inspirational to me during my life.
“This prestigious award bestowed on me is dedicated to all the special people in my life who have shaped my journey so far, helping me through challenges and celebrating the successes together.
“Finally, none of this would have been possible without my beautiful family. I thank you. I love you.”
Commenting on granting the award to Mikel, The Spanish ambassador to the UK, Jose Pascual Marco, said: “It is a pleasure to bestow the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Isabel la Catolica to Mikel Arteta. Throughout his successful career as a Spanish, British and international football player, and now as Arsenal manager, he has shown outstanding leadership and impeccable sportsmanship.
“Mikel is a respected and loved figure in the Spanish and British football community. Through the universal language of football, he has succeeded in making the friendship between the two countries stronger.”
Congratulations Mikel, we are all very proud of you.
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