Mikel Arteta is set to mark his fifth anniversary at the helm of Arsenal this Friday, and star player Bukayo Saka has openly expressed his desire for silverware, having grown tired of being the runner-up.
Arteta, who took charge at the Emirates in December 2019, vowed to be "ruthless" with any players not showing the necessary passion and commitment. Since his first match in charge against Bournemouth, only Saka remains from that initial lineup.
Now one of the longest-serving managers in the Premier League, Arteta has overseen a net transfer spend of $625million (£500 million). However, since their FA Cup triumph in 2020 with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's memorable brace, Arsenal has not secured another major trophy, nor have they clinched the Premier League title since the legendary 'Invincibles' season in 2004.
Despite setting club records for wins (28) and goals (91) in the last two seasons, they've finished second to Manchester City in the league. Reflecting on these near-misses, England international Saka said: "It's horrible man, I'll be honest.
"Finishing runners-up in two European finals for England and runners-up twice in the Premier League with Arsenal. It is that extra fuel for me, that extra motivation for me. I definitely want to get it over the line this season and try and lift a trophy for sure."
Arsenal's recent Carabao Cup quarter-final victory over Crystal Palace keeps them competing across four fronts this season, including the Champions League, while reigning champions City seem to be faltering in the league race.
Saka added: "We are not scared to say we want to win," and detailed the team's ambitions, affirming, "We feel we are ready to compete for a trophy. This season we really want to take the next step and win something."
Aafter 16 matches, the Gunners have accumulated a total of 30 points and sit six points adrift of league leaders Liverpool. Arsenal takes on Palace again this weekend after their win in midweek, this time in the Premier League.