No Trophies, No Guarantees at Arsenal

Six years in charge, one major trophy, and a crucial future on the line

Mikel Arteta faces a pivotal moment at Arsenal as he approaches his sixth anniversary as head coach. Appointed on 20 December 2019, the Spaniard immediately led the Gunners to FA Cup glory — his only major silverware since replacing Unai Emery.

Milestone Against Everton

This weekend, Arsenal host Everton, the very opponents they faced a day after Arteta’s appointment. Reflecting on his tenure, Arteta made it clear that his long-term future at the club is not guaranteed. “Yes, but it’s about today,” he said. “A lot of things have to happen in the next few months to earn the right. Winning matches and trophies is the only way. If not, you cannot survive in this environment.”

Injury Crisis and Squad Challenges

Arsenal have battled a relentless injury crisis, with over 100 absences since last season. Ben White is the latest player sidelined with a hamstring injury. Despite this, Arteta remains confident in his squad’s commitment and professionalism. “For six years, I’ve seen players with a level of attention, desire to learn and give the maximum to the team,” he said.

The Pressure to Deliver

Arsenal’s recent dramatic late victory over Wolves provided a morale boost, but Arteta knows that results alone are not enough. The Gunners are competing at a level never seen before in the Premier League, breaking records and raising expectations. “We still haven’t managed to win trophies,” Arteta admitted. “But that shows the level we are at… we want to achieve even higher goals. If we do, I think we are on the right path to winning.”

With 18 months remaining on his contract extension, Arteta’s next few months will be crucial. Success on the pitch could secure his long-term future at the Emirates, while failure to claim silverware may put him under renewed scrutiny.