Mikel Arteta has revealed the emotional moment he learned Arsenal had won the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years – not from a television screen, but from his tearful son. The Arsenal manager, speaking publicly for the first time since the club secured the championship, admitted he was building a fire in his garden when the news arrived.
Arteta's Unconventional Title Celebration
While Arsenal's players and staff gathered at the training ground to watch Manchester City's 1-1 draw at Bournemouth, Arteta chose to spend the evening at home with his family. He explained: 'Twenty minutes before the game I had to leave. I couldn't bring the energy that I wanted, and ultimately it was their moment to watch it together and be themselves.'
Instead, Arteta occupied himself with outdoor chores. 'I went home, I went outside to the garden, and I started to build some fire and started to do some barbecue. I didn't watch any of it. I was just hearing some noises in the background, in the living room and suddenly the magic happened.'
The pivotal moment came when his eldest son, Gabriel, who plays for Arsenal Under 18s, burst through the garden door. 'He started to run towards me, he started to cry, gave me a hug, and said: “We are champions, Daddy”. Just to see the joy, it was magical,' Arteta recalled.
Relief and Validation
Arteta admitted the title brought immense relief, especially after facing doubts about his ability to lead the club to major silverware. 'There is a lot of emotion, joy, happiness, being proud. And as well, relief,' he said. 'I’ve asked that question to myself: “Am I good enough to lead this team, this club, these players to win a major trophy?” And until you do it, you cannot validate yourself.'
The Spaniard, who has been at the helm for nearly seven years, acknowledged the criticism Arsenal faced after surrendering the league summit following a defeat to Manchester City in April. However, the team bounced back with four consecutive wins without conceding a goal, securing the title with a game to spare.
Looking Ahead
With the Premier League trophy secured, Arteta has set his sights on further glory. Arsenal face Paris St Germain in the Champions League final in Budapest next week. 'The thing now is you want more, and we have the biggest one to play in Budapest in a few days,' he declared.
Arteta also reflected on the importance of perseverance and resilience, values he believes were key to the team's success. 'We showed a very important value, not only in sport, but in life which is perseverance, to be resilient, to be composed in moments when people are doubting you,' he said.
The celebrations began immediately after the title was confirmed, with Arteta joining his players at a nightclub in Mayfair. However, the manager remains focused on the challenges ahead, urging his team to stay humble and curious as they pursue more trophies.
