Mikel Arteta Joined Barcelona's La Masia in 1997

Mikel Arteta arrived at La Masia of FC Barcelona on 17 August 1997. He came alongside Jon Álvarez and Mikel Yanguas, both also from Antiguoko. Joan Martínez Vilaseca signed Arteta for the Cadet A squad. Vilaseca oversaw his integration into Barcelona's youth system. Before joining Barcelona, Arteta spent nine years at Antiguoko. During that time he played with Xabi Alonso. The three Basque players formed Antiguoko's pipeline to Barcelona that summer. Their transfer illustrated the club's focus on Basque talent. Arteta now manages Arsenal and led the club to a Champions League final. His La Masia upbringing is credited with shaping his football philosophy.