Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has outlined his ambitions for the new Premier League season, insisting last campaign’s title triumph should serve as the foundation for even greater success.
The Gunners ended a 22-year wait for the league crown by finishing seven points ahead of Manchester City, with Arteta now the only current Premier League manager to have won the title following Pep Guardiola’s departure.
Despite major managerial changes at clubs including Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool, Arsenal head into the new campaign as one of the favourites after maintaining stability under Arteta.
Reflecting on the club’s title celebrations in an interview with the Arsenal App, the Spaniard described the achievement as the highlight of his football career.
“It was probably the best football experience I’ve ever had. It ranks at the highest level, surpassing any other trophy I’ve won or moment I’ve experienced.
“This achievement narrates a story and illustrates the evolution of a club that faced numerous challenges at various levels, struggling with the connection between the club, its supporters, its purpose, its identity, and our actual aspirations.”
Arteta said the focus has now shifted firmly to building on that success rather than dwelling on it.
“This must be the beginning, and this must be our benchmark.
“Excellence should be our benchmark, and it must propel us to pursue the future. Our daily conduct must reflect increasing determination and ambition, as we have demonstrated our capabilities.
“Now, we need to prove that we belong at this level and aspire to elevate this football club to new heights.”
He added that maintaining the same hunger and consistency throughout the season would be crucial to Arsenal’s chances of retaining the title.
“My goal is to ensure that we consistently meet the standards and requirements each day to improve the next. This is what we must manage.
“Moreover, sustaining that ambition, discipline, commitment, and positive energy throughout the 11 months is our collective responsibility. If we can all accomplish this, we will find ourselves in a very strong position come May.”
