Mikel Arteta began his full season at the helm by thumping Fulham 3-0 in the opening game of their 2020/21 season. The win saw The Gunners go top of the standings in match week one. As if that was enough, Arsenal fans were also treated to news they have been waiting for all summer. Their captain, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, signed a new contract that will see him stay at the club until 2023. Whether you are an Arsenal fan or you bet on soccer, you’ll agree that the mood in North London right now is heavenly. One man is behind all the positive vibes coming from the Emirates Stadium – Mikel Arteta.
Since taking over the reins from Unai Emery, he has transformed The Gunners into a totally different side. In the short period he’s been manager, his achievements are unbelievable. The expectations at The Gunners have shifted as they target more silverware this season. So, how exactly has Arteta changed Arsenal into a more competitive team again?
He brought back the winning mentality
In the recent past, Arsenal had lost their competitive edge over the Premier League’s top six. However, since Arteta took over, things have changed. This year, he has managed to beat Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Chelsea. He confirmed that he means business after beating Liverpool a second time at the beginning of the season in the Community shield showdown.
He has brought back silverware at the Emirates Stadium
In the eight months he has been in charge, Arteta has delivered two trophies- the FA Cup and the Community Shield. Nobody thought they would beat The Blues in the FA Cup Final last season. But the team rose to the occasion and produced a confident performance led by captain fantastic Aubameyang. That win also saw them book a spot in this season’s Europa League.
There is a new playing style
The Gunners are not winning with lucky performances; they are doing it in style thanks to Arteta’s new philosophy. The style of play is better from what fans witnessed during Emery’s time in charge. They are playing beautiful, free-flowing football, which keeps their fans entertained. The manager has installed confidence in the team, and they can build-up play from the back with ease.
He is bringing big-name signings
To make The Gunners challengers for a top-four spot required some enhancements. Arteta has been busy in the summer transfer. He managed to bring in Willian on a free transfer from Chelsea and Gabriel from Lille. The two hit the ground running in the opening match with Gabriel getting on the score sheet while Willian produced assists for all the three goals. There is still room for The Gunners to bring in more signings.
He convinced Aubameyang to stay
Convincing Aubameyang to stay is arguably his most significant achievement as Arsenal manager thus far. There were lots of rumors making rounds in the European media of Auba leaving in search of silverware. He was a target for Barcelona and Inter Milan.
But he signed a three-year deal thanks to Arteta. In an interview with Ian Wright, an Arsenal legend, he revealed that he was convinced with the vision Arteta has for the club. Instead of leaving in search of Champions League football, he stayed put to help his team get back to European football.
Now Arteta has a full season to showcase his credentials as a manager. If he can steer the team back to the top four, that will be a significant step in the right direction.
