Arsenal announced some good news this week, with Mikel Arteta committing to a new three-year contract at the club. The new deal will see him through to the summer of 2027.
There had been some speculation earlier this year that the likes of Manchester City and Barcelona could make a move for Arteta next year, with his previous Arsenal deal set to expire in 2025.
That was particularly true before Xavi left Barcelona, with his contract to run out in 2025 as well. The same is the case for Pep Guardiola.
Yet in response to those rumours, Arteta insists he never had any intention to leave Arsenal, regardless of the team interested.
“I was never going to leave Arsenal for any other club or country now,” Arteta said.
“This is my emotional attachment that I have. My family have and my kids have. The experience that I have. The moment with the people. It’s too strong.
“I couldn’t think of a better place to be as a player with the people that I met and the experiences that I had at this amazing football club. Now as a manager, it’s been something far beyond and better than I ever dreamed about probably.”
That will be welcome news to Arsenal fans, with Arteta helping his team to reach new heights with every season since he took over.
The Gunners’ points tally has only gone in one direction for the last few years, and another improvement this season would surely be enough to finally win the Premier League.
Arsenal will also be looking to perform well in the new-look Champions League, which kicks off next week.
In the meantime, Arteta has the small matter of a north London derby to worry about on Sunday.
