Arteta’s Long Game: Why a Decade at Arsenal Was Never the Plan
Mikel Arteta’s future at Arsenal may be far less linear than many supporters have imagined. According to a source close to the Spanish coach, Arteta never intended to build a decade-long managerial reign at a single club, with staying 10 years at Arsenal now considered unrealistic, as reported by The Athletic.
The 42-year-old approaches management with relentless intensity, both mentally and physically. Internally, there is an understanding that the demands of the role could eventually force him to step away for a break, rather than remain at the helm indefinitely. With his current contract set to expire in 2027, questions about the long-term direction of both club and coach are beginning to surface.
Arteta arrived at Arsenal in December 2019, fresh from his apprenticeship under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Tasked with restoring order and identity to a club drifting from its elite status, he inherited a fractured squad and a restless fanbase. Progress was not immediate, but the transformation was clear.
Within months, Arteta delivered silverware, guiding Arsenal to FA Cup glory in 2020, followed by a Community Shield triumph. More importantly, he rebuilt the club’s culture, placing faith in youth, enforcing discipline, and re-establishing Arsenal as genuine contenders in English football.
In recent seasons, the Gunners have come agonisingly close to ending their long wait for a Premier League title. Finishing second in each of the last three campaigns, twice behind Manchester City and once behind Liverpool, Arsenal have returned to the summit of English football—only to fall just short of the final step.
Despite the lack of a league title, Arteta’s impact is undeniable. He has turned Arsenal into one of Europe’s most competitive and tactically sophisticated sides, earning admiration across the game. Yet, the revelation that he never envisioned a long-term stay adds a new layer of intrigue to his tenure.
Whether Arteta extends his stay beyond 2027 or eventually seeks a pause from the intensity of management, his time at Arsenal has already reshaped the club’s trajectory. For now, the focus remains on turning near-misses into history—but the clock on Arteta’s Arsenal chapter may be ticking louder than many expected.