Former captain Mikel spent five years at Arsenal, and led the Gunners to consecutive FA Cups in 2014 and 2015.
The Spaniard’s other highlights included a coolly-taken penalty in the 3-3 Champions League draw with Anderlecht - a goal notable for being Arsenal’s 500th at Emirates Stadium. It was the ninth successful spot-kick in a row for the composed midfielder.
Born in San Sebastian, Mikel began his career at Barcelona and went on to represent Spain at various youth levels, winning the Uefa Under-16 Championship in 1999. After two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain he signed for Glasgow Rangers, winning the domestic treble in his debut season in Scotland.
Following a short spell at Real Sociedad, Mikel joined Everton, where he spent six years as the creative lynchpin of their midfield, winning their Player of the Season award twice.
He became an Arsenal player on transfer deadline day in 2011, and successfully adapted his role to a more deep-lying, organising position at the base of the midfield. After winning the FA Cup twice with the Gunners, Mikel left the club at the end of the 2015/16 season.
