Mikel Arteta has delivered a candid assessment of his future at Arsenal, suggesting he must deliver silverware in the near future to 'earn the right' to remain as the club's manager in the long term.
Reflecting on Six Years at the Helm
The Spaniard's comments came as he approaches his six-year anniversary as Gunners boss this Saturday. Arteta was in a reflective mood ahead of Arsenal's Premier League fixture against Everton, a club where his managerial journey intriguingly began. He and Carlo Ancelotti were both spectators at Goodison Park for a 0-0 draw between the sides just before they were appointed managers of Arsenal and Everton respectively.
Despite transforming the club's culture and securing consistent top-four finishes, Arteta's tangible success so far is limited to the 2020 FA Cup. His current contract at the Emirates Stadium is set to expire in the summer of 2027.
'The Manager Has to Earn the Right'
When questioned about his vision for staying at the North London club beyond that date, Arteta offered a pragmatic response. 'Yes, but it is about today,' he stated. 'And a lot of things have to happen in the next few months, as well, to earn the right. I think the manager has to earn the right to be here tomorrow.'
He elaborated that his motivation stems from the dedication of his players, but ultimately, sustained success is non-negotiable. 'For six years, I have seen just players with a level of attention, desire to learn and give the maximum to the team. That is what keeps me in this job. Nothing else. And, obviously, winning a lot of football matches. Percentage wise, I think it is quite high. That is the only way. If not, you cannot survive in this environment.'
Players Seek Clarity on Boss's Future
Arteta also revealed a telling detail about the club's internal dynamics, admitting that players involved in their own contract negotiations directly ask him about his long-term plans. 'They do ask me, but I cannot lie to them,' he confessed. 'I don't know, as it is something that does not depend on me.'
While affirming his personal commitment and energy for the project, the 42-year-old emphasised the decision is not his alone. 'Are you really happy here? Do you feel that you have the energy and you feel you can take this club (further)? Yes. One hundred per cent, yes. But I think it does not depend only on me. And they have to make a decision based on what they feel about it.'
This public admission places a clear spotlight on the coming months, framing Arsenal's pursuit of the Premier League and Champions League as critical not just for the club's honours, but for the continuity of its architect's reign.
