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Ahead of marking his sixth anniversary at the helm, Mikel Arteta has admitted that his longevity in North London is fundamentally dependent to achieving success.

Reflecting on: Six Years in Charge

The Spanish coach assumed control on December 20th, 2019 and managed to steer the team to an FA Cup triumph a short time later. Yet, that first major trophy is still his only significant piece of silverware following the departure of Unai Emery.

“Yes,” Arteta responded when questioned about staying beyond 2027. “However, it is about today. And many things need to fall into place in the next few months as well to earn the right.”

Saturday night brings the anniversary with a game facing Everton, the exact opponent Arsenal faced immediately following his appointment was announced.

The Current Landscape

Given that chasing Manchester City playing against West Ham on Saturday afternoon, Arsenal could be displaced top spot in the Premier League prior to their fixture. This comes despite Arteta managing a squad that has been plagued by more than a century of fitness issues from the beginning of last season.

He currently has 18 months remaining on the contract he inked in 2024, yet understands fully that he must deliver sooner rather than later.

Earning the Right

He went on to explain, emphasizing the constant necessity to justify his role. “I think a manager has to earn the right to be here tomorrow. And that depends on how you react, how you address the media, how you enter the dressing room, the signal you send.”

Arteta continued, expressing gratitude for the strong backing from the club's ownership, but pinpointing the squad's dedication as most crucial. “Ultimately, the key individuals are those players... For six years, I’ve seen just players with a standard of focus, willingness to improve and give their all to the team.”

Squad Setbacks

Arsenal heads into the weekend fixture coping with a fresh setback. Defender Ben White has been ruled out with a strain that is likely to keep him out for several weeks.

Evolved Priorities

Despite the fitness woes and the intense pressure, Arteta is confident the club's “focus and dialogue” are profoundly distinct from when he initially took over.

He pointed to the squad's displays as a sign they are nearing their goal. “Examine the performances, all the records that we... were breaking... We still have yet to do that [win trophies]. But that shows the level we are at.”

He finished by saying, “This is a standard that the Premier League has not seen before in the past. And our aim is to achieve greater objectives. And if we do that, I think we are on the proper course to winning.”