May 15, (THEWILL) – Mikel Arteta has been bestowed with a prestigious Spanish honour – The Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic. The award is a civil order granted by the King of Spain and the Minister of Foreign Affairs for extraordinary services to Spain or promoting international cooperation.
Since its inception in 1815, the accolade has been highly selective, awarded only to distinguished people and institutions. The Arsenal manager received the order at the Spanish Embassy in London on Wednesday, surrounded by family, friends and key Arsenal personnel.
In his remarks, a humbled Mikel said: “I am honoured to receive The Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic. I express sincere gratitude to the King of Spain and the Grand Chancellor on behalf of myself and my family. It is wonderful to accept this award alongside inspirational figures from my life.”
He dedicated the honour to his loved ones, adding: “This prestigious recognition is for the special people who shaped my journey, supported me through challenges and celebrated successes together. None of this would be possible without my beautiful family. I thank and love you.”
The Spanish ambassador to the UK, Jose Pascual Marco, highlighted Mikel’s impact: “It is a pleasure to bestow the Officer’s Cross to Mikel Arteta. As a Spanish, British and international player, and now Arsenal manager, he has displayed outstanding leadership and sportsmanship.
“Mikel is respected in the Spanish and British football communities. Through football’s universal language, he strengthened friendship between our nations,” Marco added. The London club concluded: “Congratulations Mikel, we are all very proud of you.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
