Timeline. Mikel Arteta was diagnosed with coronavirus on March 12 and the Premier League was postponed the next day. Less than two weeks after that, on March 24, PM Boris Johnson announced strict lockdown in the UK.
Coverage. As Arsenal are one of the most popular clubs in the world, the Spaniard's diagnosis received more attention than, for example, that of Olympiacos president Marinakis.
Not a common cold: The fact that the virus affected a high-profile football manager, normally a rather privileged person, helped the general public understand that the disease is serious enough, not 'a common cold' as some thought.
Awareness. This resulted in people following the NHS guidelines (stay home, wash hands, keep six feet apart) more closely as well as the government introducing new measures to fight the spread of the disease.
Setting an example. The Premier League acted quickly and postponed games. Many other leagues followed suit as only Serie A had already been suspended at that time.
This way, Arteta's diagnosis prevented many mass gatherings, and therefore infections across the world.
Now, with coronavirus behind Arteta, the coach is set to prepare his side for the clash against Manchester City on June 17.
The Gunners are in contact training and have already played a friendly game against Charlton with the 38-year-old having to sort out several problems, including creating scoring opportunities.
