Arsenal Football Club has had a rollercoaster ride in recent years, with highs and lows coming in waves. However, since the appointment of Mikel Arteta as the manager, there seems to be a renewed sense of purpose, and the club is gradually climbing back to its former glory. Arteta, a former captain of Arsenal, took over the reins in December 2019 and has since made significant strides in turning things around for the London club.
During his playing days, Arteta was one of Arsenal’s shining stars, with his precise passing, technical agility, and eye for goal. His success on the pitch made him a fan-favorite, and he was widely revered for his leadership skills. Therefore, when Arsenal was scouting for a new manager, Arteta was an obvious choice, as he possessed the qualities that the club was seeking.
When Arteta first took over the helm, Arsenal was in disarray, hovering above the relegation zone in the Premier League, and struggling to find its feet. However, Arteta quickly set about transforming the club, beginning with implementing a new approach to the game. He prioritized the attacking style of play and emphasized the importance of a solid defense, which had been Arsenal’s Achilles heel for years.
Arteta was not afraid to make bold decisions, most notably having the guts to bench some of Arsenal’s seasoned players, who he deemed to be underperforming. He also brought in new players to freshen up the team, providing much needed depth and quality. With these new additions, Arsenal began to show glimpses of brilliance, and it was only a matter of time before they started soaring, much to the delight of the fans.
It is also worth noting that apart from his tactical know-how, Arteta’s apparent leadership skills have been a major contribution to the turnaround of Arsenal. He has taken on the role of a mentor to his players, and under his guidance, many have improved their game immensely. He has developed a winning mentality within the squad, instilling a sense of self-belief, and emphasized the importance of unity and discipline.
Perhaps the most significant impact that Arteta has had is his ability to nurture the Arsenal squad’s attacking prowess. The team had been struggling with creativity and firepower upfront, but this has changed since Arteta took over. He has deployed a more fluid front line, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette, and Nicolas Pepe leading the attack. The combination has been deadly, and Arsenal’s willingness to attack in numbers has yielded excellent results.
Another key aspect that has contributed to Arsenal’s resurgence under Arteta is his belief in the youngsters. He has shown faith in academy products such as Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and Gabriel Martinelli, who have all blossomed under his tutelage. Arteta’s willingness to entrust the youngsters with significant roles within the squad has given them the freedom and confidence to express themselves on the pitch. His decision to start Saka in various positions, including left-back, has been particularly inspired, and the player has repaid his coach’s faith with blistering performances.
Beyond the team’s performances on the pitch, Arteta’s leadership has inspired the entire club. The players have responded well to his leadership, and there is a palpable sense of optimism around the club. The fans are also delighted with the progress that Arteta has made, and many are hopeful that Arsenal can return to its former glory under his guidance.
In conclusion, Mikel Arteta has been the catalyst for Arsenal’s resurgence. His experience as a player, coupled with his tactical acumen, leadership skills, and willingness to make bold decisions, has transformed the club. He has breathed new life into the team, instilled a culture of togetherness and accountability, and created an attacking force to be reckoned with. Arteta has rekindled the Arsenal spirit, and the club is on course to reclaim its place among England’s elite clubs.