Arsenal's 3-0 Champions League victory saw Arteta pay heartfelt tribute to Ken Fryer.

After a resounding 3-0 victory over Lille in the Champions League, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta dedicated the win to Ken Friar, the club's honorary life president who passed away on Monday at the age of 92.

Fryer served Arsenal for decades and was a key figure in the team's relocation from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium. In this modern stadium, which he spearheaded, Arsenal paid the highest tribute to the legendary manager with a resounding Champions League victory.

In a post-match interview, Arteta emotionally stated that this was exactly the kind of game Fryer had hoped for: "This victory is dedicated to him. I'm sure he would be proud of the result and the way the team played. I know he has always been proud of the club's current standing, the squad, and the cohesion the team has built."

Arteta recalled feeling deeply saddened when he received a phone call from senior executive Richard Garrick in the morning informing him of Fryer's passing. Speaking about Fryer's profound impact on Arsenal, Arteta stated, "In a club, there are people who can do their jobs well."

“But very few people can transform their personal charisma, character, and love for the club into the cornerstone of the club’s culture and values like he did. His legacy is immeasurable, and he will always be with this club.”

Arteta also specifically praised Fryer's humble character: "He never takes credit, is extremely meticulous and focused in his work, and at the same time is full of humor and amazing energy, which is why he is irreplaceable."

Image source: Internet/Arsenal official website