Arteta took charge at the Emirates in December, bringing the curtain down on a hugely successful two-and-a-half year period as Pep’s assistant.
He played a key role in our success, with City winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups during his time here.
And Guardiola, who remains in contact with his fellow Spaniard, says working alongside Arteta was ‘a joy’.
“I am excited to see him again,” Pep said. “He is one of the nicest people I ever met.
“It was a joy for me and all of us to work with him. I feel he is happy.
“I am looking forward to seeing him.”
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Asked if Arteta will have the inside track on City’s style and approach to the game, Guardiola admitted the Arsenal manager will know us intimately – but believes it is players who make the difference.
“The game belongs to the players,” he said. “Managers can suggest - players make the difference. The game belongs to them.
“There is a responsibility on all of them to say we are here. We know each other and he knows everything about us. It is the same as when he was here.
“He is an incredibly important part of our recent success. He helped us be who we are and that’s why he knows us.
“We are delighted for him to come back. If he is happy, we are happy.”
