Josh Kroenke, co-owner of Arsenal, emphasized that securing Mikel Arteta’s new contract is a top priority for the club.
Arteta’s current three-year contract, which he signed in 2020, is set to expire in 2027. Reports from ESPN indicate that both the manager and the club are keen on extending his six-and-a-half year tenure.
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Kroenke stated, “Keeping Mikel here is an utmost priority. The positive news for Arsenal fans is that he enjoys the project and being a part of the club. From his days as a player to now, Mikel is truly an Arsenal man.” This was shared with a small group of reporters before Saturday’s Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Last month, Arteta expressed that he is “fully committed” to Arsenal; however, discussions regarding a new contract would be delayed until the summer.
Arteta noted, “We don’t have time to discuss that now. Our focus is on what we need to accomplish until the season’s end.”
Following his earlier comments, Arteta has led Arsenal to their first Premier League title in 22 years and could achieve a historic double if they win against PSG in the final on Saturday in Budapest.
Kroenke further remarked, “If there’s one person who you can credit for this success, it’s Mikel, his staff, and the players. Mikel may devise our strategies, but it’s the players who must execute on the pitch and secure victories.”
In the previous summer, Arsenal invested over £250 million in eight new signings, and Kroenke is adamant that the club must continue to strive for greatness.
“We are committed to strengthening our squad, as we recognize that our competitors will improve,” he said. “If you’re not consistently evolving and enhancing your team, you risk stagnation.”
“We believe we have a strong opportunity here. Our foundational work is solid, and now the aim is to stay at the top while recognizing that others are trying to advance as well.”
PA contributed to this report.