Bayern Munich’s David Alaba has revealed that his childhood hero was Patrick Vieira.
The former Arsenal midfielder won multiple league titles in England and Italy, while he was a key part of the French side that won the World Cup in 1998 and the European Championship in 2000.
And ahead of Austria’s Euro 2016 opener against Hungary, Alaba, who is set to start in central midfield, has spoken about his football idol.
“In the first place, Patrick Vieira,” Alaba told France Football.
”What a player! He inspired me through his presence, his style of play, his strong personality. I was a fan of Arsenal, who dominated everything around 10 years ago.
“I only had eyes for Vieira. Our styles don’t resemble each other particularly but in this position he’s an example, notably in his way of imposing himself in duels.”
