Mikel Arteta has reflected on his five-year tenure at Arsenal as he prepares to take charge of his 250th game for the club on Saturday.
The Spanish manager arrived at the Emirates in 2019 following a successful stint as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City. Tasked with succeeding Arsene Wenger—who managed the Gunners for an incredible 22 years—Arteta faced immediate pressure to make his mark.
Since his arrival, Arteta has brought tangible success to Arsenal, claiming the FA Cup in the 2019/20 season and adding two Community Shields to the trophy cabinet. He has also come tantalizingly close to Premier League glory, finishing as runners-up to Manchester City in the past two seasons.
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Ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest, Arteta took time to reflect on his journey at the club.
“I’m extremely grateful,” Arteta said on Friday. “I’m very happy, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it because of the people I work with every single day. I understand how lucky I am to be here, but I always want more.
“I feel a huge sense of pride in seeing how our organization feels about the club right now—what we represent as a team and a football club. But ultimately, it’s about winning. I want more, I want big trophies, and we’re on that journey.”
When asked about his proudest achievement during his tenure, Arteta focused on the cultural transformation he has overseen rather than the trophies won.
“Bringing the club together, 100%,” he said. “It’s about lifting the spirit and instilling a clear DNA within the football club. Resetting the standards for what it means to represent this badge—from the players to everyone who works at the club. That, for me, is the biggest accomplishment.”
Arsenal will look to bounce back on Saturday after a difficult run of form. The Gunners are winless in their last four Premier League matches, with their most recent league victory coming against Southampton in October.