Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has defended the team’s current style under Mikel Arteta, insisting that ending the club’s long wait for a Premier League title is the only priority.
Speaking on Monday Night Football, Henry made it clear that results must come before aesthetics as Arsenal push to secure their first league crown since 2004.
The former captain, who was a key figure in the Invincibles side, emphasised that the manner of victory should not overshadow the importance of success.
“I do not have to like it as an Arsenal fan, but I surely respect it,” Henry said. “After 22 years, I want to win the league, no matter how they are going to do it.”
Arsenal’s style has come under scrutiny this season, particularly due to their increased reliance on set-pieces.
More than a third of their goals have come from dead-ball situations, despite significant investment in attacking players.
However, Henry believes those criticisms overlook the broader objective.
“We asked Mikel Arteta to find a way, and he has,” he added. “It does not matter what I like, it does not matter what anyone likes, it is about winning.”
Henry also pointed to the evolution of Arsenal under Arteta.
The Gunners had previously been criticised for being unable to manage games and protect leads.
“For a very long time Arsenal were called soft,” he said. “Now they can win ugly, and that is what people asked for.”
Arsenal’s current approach has seen them become more defensively solid.
They now boast the strongest defensive record of Arteta’s tenure, even if their attacking output has dipped compared to previous seasons.
Henry questioned whether expectations around the so-called “Arsenal way” were influencing the criticism.
“What is the Arsenal way?” he asked. “Is it Arsene Wenger, is it George Graham, or is it something else?”
He pointed out that Arsenal have historically succeeded with different styles, including the pragmatic approach under Graham.
Henry also referenced Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea side, who were praised for their efficiency despite a less expansive style when they won the league.
“They found a way to win, and everyone respected it,” Henry said. “That is what matters.”
Former defender Jamie Carragher also supported Arteta’s approach.
Carragher highlighted the manager’s willingness to adapt tactically rather than remain tied to one philosophy.
He noted that Arteta has evolved from a possession-heavy style into a more pragmatic system focused on results.
Arsenal currently sit at the top of the Premier League table and are closing in on a first title in over two decades.
For Henry, the focus remains clear as the season reaches its decisive phase.
“It is simple,” he said. “Find a way to win the league.”