Mikel Arteta has reflected on the progress of Arsenal as he celebrates five years in charge of the Gunners.
Arteta was appointed as Arsenal manager on December 20th 2019, taking his first senior role at the club he previously captained. He won the FA Cup in his debut season and has since lifted two Community Shields, while leading Arsenal back into the Champions League and title race contention after a long absence.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash with Crystal Palace, Arteta was asked where he believes the club have progressed during his tenure.
“The unity, the connection and the fact we are competing in big fronts right now. We haven’t managed to do that in recent years so that’s positive,” he said at his pre-match press conference.
“I am here because I am so passionate about what I do and I love this football club. I try to be the best version every day.
“Those things take time. There was a connection here with the fans because I was a player and captain here but after going through different situations together it had galvanised the relationship.”
Asked what areas he needs to improve in as a coach to continue Arsenal’s development, he added: “In all of them. I was very obsessed with the tactical aspect when I arrived but after two months I realised there was no tactics to do because we were sitting at home [it was Covid].
“We had to look after the emotional and physical well-being of the players. You have to evolve.”
Ahead of the trip to Crystal Palace, Arteta confirmed Declan Rice and Riccardo Calafiori are available for selection.
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