Mikel Arteta has turned to his oldest ally, Gabriel Heinze, as Arsenal chase their first Premier League title in 22 years. The former Argentina defender joined as assistant manager last summer, replacing Carlos Cuesta and bringing a relationship that dates back to their Paris Saint-Germain days in 2001.

Arteta and Heinze first met under Luis Fernandez at PSG, where the shy 18-year-old Spaniard found support from his older Argentine teammate. Their bond formed during Arteta's difficult transition to European football, living in a basic hotel room during a cold Parisian winter. Fernandez describes them as 'great boys' who remain 'exactly the same today' - loyal and hard-working.

Heinze's influence extends beyond their personal connection. The rugged defender who won league titles in France, England and Spain now works primarily with Arsenal's backline, bringing his obsessive attention to defensive detail. Former teammate Edouard Cisse notes they're 'like two volcanoes' - Arteta occasionally erupting while Heinze's intensity never wavers. This combination has helped transform Arsenal's already-strong defense into what many consider England's best.