Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a candid and somewhat worrying assessment of his own future at the Emirates Stadium, admitting he cannot promise players he will be there long-term.
Arteta's contract stance: 'I must earn the right'
The Spaniard, who marks six years in charge this weekend, has an existing deal that runs until the summer of 2027. When questioned about extending beyond that 18-month horizon, Arteta gave a revealing answer. "Yes, but it is about today and a lot of things have to happen in the next few months, as well, to earn the right," he stated.
He elaborated that a manager's position is never guaranteed. "I think the manager has to earn the right to be here tomorrow. That is how you react, how you talk here, how you go in the dressing room, the message that you send, how much the players follow you."
Player questions and the 'cannot lie' admission
Arteta acknowledged that his own uncertain situation could impact key contract talks with his squad, notably with star winger Bukayo Saka, whose deal also expires in 18 months. He revealed players have asked him about his plans.
"They do ask me but I can not lie to them. I don't know, it is something that does not depend on me," Arteta reflected. He affirmed his happiness and energy for the job but stressed, "I think it does not depend only on me."
The missing piece: Arsenal's pursuit of silverware
Despite transforming the club's culture and making them perennial title challengers, the one glaring omission under Arteta is a Premier League trophy, having finished runners-up in each of the last three seasons.
When this was pointed out, Arteta admitted, "Yes and we’re very close to that with the amount of points and the things that we’ve done consistently." He pointed to the record-breaking levels the team has reached, suggesting it puts them on the right path to ultimate success.
The immediate focus, however, is a daunting Premier League fixture list. Arsenal's title credentials face a severe test in their next six games, matches from which they dropped 13 points last season:
- Everton (a) - Drew 1-1
- Brighton (h) - Drew 1-1
- Aston Villa (h) - Drew 2-2
- Bournemouth (a) - Won 2-0
- Liverpool (h) - Drew 2-2
- Nottingham Forest (a) - Drew 0-0
With Manchester City rediscovering their formidable form, the title race is intensifying. How Arsenal navigate this pivotal period could define not only their season but also the long-term future of their highly respected manager.
