Mathieu Flamini reveals he misses his four-man Arsenal ‘wolf pack’ most about football

MATHIEU FLAMINI misses his four-man “wolf pack” at Arsenal.

The former French midfielder, 39, spent seven years with the Gunners across two spells.

Mathieu Flamini enjoyed his two stints with ArsenalGetty

Cesc Fabregas, Tomas Rosicky and Flamini were close friendsTimes Newspapers Ltd

However, after stints with Crystal Palace and Getafe, he decided to hang up his boots aged 35.

He is thriving as the full-time CEO of GF Biochemicals, a company committed to producing sustainable alternatives to oil-based products.

But while he helps create a greener planet, Flamini still holds fond memories of his time with Arsenal.

And a large part of that was due to his key principle of surrounding himself with good people.

For Flamini at Arsenal, he dubbed it his “wolf pack” – and it featured Cesc Fabregas, Alexander Hleb and Tomas Rosicky.

The three-time FA Cup winner told The Athletic: “We were super close, both on and off the pitch.

“This was our wolf pack.

“We took care of each other, we looked after each other, we protected each other in a midfield which was very technical but also very offensive.

“My job was to play further back and make sure everybody was protected.”

Flamini racked up 246 appearances for Arsenal, chipping in with 13 goals, and earned three senior France caps.

He enjoyed five seasons with AC Milan from 2008 to 2013, winning Serie A in 2010-11.

It was there that he was “struck by the humility” of the Milan players, in particular Paolo Maldini, upon his San Siro switch.

However, now a reported billionaire and with his company worth £10billion, Flamini has hinted at one day launching an outrageous bid to try and buy Arsenal.

GettyFabregas, Flamini and Rosicky are introduced to the Queen[/caption]

GettyAlexander Hleb, second left, was a popular figure in North London[/caption]