Mikel Arteta has left no stone unturned in his quest for success at Arsenal, from planting a 150-year-old olive tree to adopting a chocolate-coloured labrador called Win. Yet, despite these efforts, the Gunners are once again on the verge of finishing second, this time to Manchester City. The latest innovation involved lighting a fire at the training ground, which only resulted in the Watford coach losing his voice.
The Psychological Stunts
Since his appointment in December 2019, Arteta has employed various psychological tricks. He used a lightbulb during a pre-match team talk to 'create energy and electricity' and hired professional pickpockets during a pre-season dinner. The labrador, Win, was adopted after reading that petting a dog can reduce stress. However, Win is about to turn five, and Arsenal have not won a major trophy since the FA Cup in Arteta's first season.
The Weight of History
Arsenal have spent 539 nights top of the Premier League without winning the title under Arteta, surpassing Kevin Keegan's record. Since their last title in 2004, they have been top for 959 days, while City have been top for 1,201 nights and won eight titles in the same period. The defeat at the Etihad, where Arteta ended on his knees after Kai Havertz missed a late chance, was symbolic of their struggles.
The Creative Void
During the 2022-23 season, Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka scored 44 league goals between them. This season, they have managed only eight combined, partly due to injuries. With Saka struggling with an achilles issue, Arteta needs Ødegaard and Martinelli to step up. Eberechi Eze, who was substituted against City just after hitting the post, appears to be the only player capable of unlocking defences, but Arteta must show more trust in him.
Havertz and Gyökeres
Arteta dropped Viktor Gyökeres, his top scorer with 12 goals, against City. The attack looked smoother with Kai Havertz leading the line, but his limitations were exposed by two missed chances. Gyökeres lacks Havertz's link-up play, and pairing them has not worked. With few in-form options, Arteta may need to be bold.
The Manager's Mindset
Arteta, a self-confessed workaholic, starts his day at 5:30 am, earlier than any other Premier League manager. His touchline demeanour has been criticised for transmitting anxiety to his players. Unlike Pep Guardiola, who won six La Liga titles as a player, Arteta's only championship was with Rangers in 2003. His guarded press conferences and calls for fan support have backfired, as before the defeat to Bournemouth when fans were told to 'bring your lunch'.
The Future
Arteta retains the faith of the Arsenal hierarchy, but if they finish another season trophyless, that resolve will be tested. A growing section of fans question whether he can take the final step. With the pressure slightly released after losing the lead to City, it is time for Arteta to deliver.
