“For me he was like a maestro” - Robert Pires names ‘genius’ Arsenal teammate he learnt a lot from

Former Arsenal star Robert Pires has lavished praise on ex-teammate Dennis Bergkamp, claiming he learned much from the Dutchman. Both players will go down as some of the best to represent the north Londoners and even formed a part of the squad that won the 2003/04 league season unbeaten.

In total, the pair shared the pitch on 178 occasions, managing 13 joint goal contributions in the process. Speaking about Bergkamp on The Obi One Podcast, Pires said:

"Of course (he meant it). He's a genius. For me he was like a maestro. When we talk about technique, this guy was one of the best. As a midfielder, it was a privilege to play with him."

He added:

"Thierry Henry is from another plane, but he was different to Dennis Bergkamp. But Bergkamp with the ball could create something that would produce spectacular moments like the goal against Newcastle."

"I learnt a lot from him, especially on my first touch."

The goal Pires is referring to in his comments came during Arsenal's 2001/02 league campaign in a match against Newcastle United. With his back to goal, Bergkamp flicked the ball around a defender on the edge of the box to beat his man and finish calmly.

This strike from the 55-year-old is widely considered as one of the best goals from a Gunners player. Overall, he made 422 appearances across competitions for Arsenal, bagging 120 goals and 112 assists.

Bergkamp won the Premier League trophy thrice while lifting the FA Cup on four occasions, among other honors with the club.

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Robert Pires snubs Arsenal as he calls Pep Guardiola's Manchester City the best team in the world

Pep Guardiola

Robert Pires thinks Pep Guardiola's Manchester City side are the best in the world at the moment. Although Arsenal have come close to pipping the Cityzens to the league title for the last two campaigns, they've fallen short of their goal.

After winning the English top-flight in the 2023/24 season, the Manchester side recorded their fourth straight league success. They also managed to win the UEFA Champions League during the 2022/23 campaign.

Speaking about this on The Obi One Podcast, Pires said:

"I think the mix between the players and Pep Guardiola, today it's the best (Manchester City)."

Manchester City have gotten off to a fast start this year as well, winning their league opener against Chelsea 2-0 on Sunday (August 18). Meanwhile, Arsenal defeated Wolves 2-0 in their first match on Saturday (August 17).