Arteta Reveals the One Key Arsenal Must Master to End Their Premier League Title Curse
Mikel Arteta is convinced that Arsenal have elevated to "a new standard" this campaign due to enhanced squad depth and greater maturity as the North London club pursues their first Premier League championship in over two decades. However, achieving this goal will demand even greater efforts.
Since joining England's premier division in 1919, Arsenal have never endured such an extended period without claiming the title, with their most recent Premier League triumph occurring in the 2003–04 season.
Following three consecutive second-place finishes in 2022–23, 2023–24 and 2024–25, Arteta's current squad sits atop the table as they approach the season's midpoint.
"We've elevated our performance this campaign. Previously, we often had just 13 or 14 outfield players vying for positions. That wasn't sufficient," the coach explained to TNT Sports.
"We've expanded our roster and enhanced both the caliber and adaptability of this squad. We've incorporated elements we previously lacked that can work together in a truly dynamic manner, and they have integrated exceptionally well."
Throughout the summer transfer window, Arsenal invested substantially—approximately £272.5 million ($364.6 million)—acquiring seven new signings. Piero Hincapié also arrived on loan with a £45 million purchase clause for the following year.
His addition, alongside Cristhian Mosquera, has vitally addressed defensive injury concerns, while Martín Zubimendi has significantly bolstered the midfield core. In attack, Arsenal finally secured a striker in Viktor Gyökeres, though he hasn't matched his prolific Sporting CP form, with additional flair provided by Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke.
The growth of established stars like Bukayo Saka, who have gained valuable experience from previous disappointments, has also proven beneficial—something that cannot be rushed.
"You can observe how the squad competes and how individual players have developed and grown. Reaching this level requires considerable time," Arteta continued. "Consider Bukayo's extensive match experience at his young age, or [Gabriel] Martinelli, [William] Saliba, big [Gabriel], Jurriën [Timber]—he's only 23—this represents what we've been constructing."
'Perfection is Essential'
Arteta has guided Arsenal through their most consistent Premier League campaign in two decades, returning the club to Champions League competition after a six-year absence from Europe's top tournament. However, securing the Premier League crown demands, according to him, near-flawless execution.
"[During 2023–24], we registered Arsenal's highest-ever goal tally while conceding the fewest, achieving the most shutouts and victories. Yet the title still eluded us. Such are the standards we face," Arteta elaborated.
"Virtually everything must align perfectly in this competition to have a realistic chance of winning it. This season, we're again posting exceptional statistics across all areas, and we must maintain this level for another half-year."