Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has paid tribute to Thomas Frank after the Danish coach was dismissed by Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, describing him as both an “excellent coach” and an “extraordinary man.”

Frank was sacked following a dismal run of results that left Spurs languishing in 16th place, just five points above the relegation zone. The former Brentford boss was unable to replicate the success he enjoyed with the Bees, and Tottenham opted to make a change with the season entering a critical phase.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League trip to Brentford on Thursday, Arteta admitted the news was difficult to hear but acknowledged the harsh realities of top-flight management.

“Thomas is an excellent coach. He is an extraordinary man as well and he has proven that in the Premier League,” Arteta told reporters.

“It’s very sad news. We know our responsibility is beyond just performance. Sometimes results dictate what happens to us. I wish him all the very best for whatever he wants to do next.”

Spurs are set to face Arsenal in the North London derby on February 22, with either an interim boss or a newly appointed manager likely to be in charge, adding further intrigue to the fixture.

Arteta revealed that Arsenal have grown accustomed to facing teams under new leadership this season, forcing them to prioritise their own approach rather than trying to predict tactical shifts.

“At the end you learn the lesson not only with the change of manager but with what you expect from a manager to do against you as well, because they change it a lot this season,” he said.

“So focus more on us and make sure that what we want to achieve… The set-up is one thing, the player profile is another thing and the momentum of the game and context is something else.”

Asked whether Premier League clubs are becoming too impatient with managers, Arteta suggested each situation is unique but conceded that vulnerability is part of the job.

“In the context of every club it is very different, but it’s always a possibility,” he said.

“I can just talk about Frank and what I know as a coach, because I faced him many times and how he prepares his teams and what he did at Brentford too.

“But in the end this league is so competitive. We are all vulnerable because anybody can beat you on the day and that’s really tough to manage.”

Arteta also confirmed Arsenal will make late decisions on the fitness of Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, while Max Dowman remains unavailable.