Mikel Arteta has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal, committing his future to the club until the summer of 2030. The deal sees his role change from 'head coach' to 'manager', a title he had not previously held since his appointment in December 2019.
Title success and new agreement
Arteta recovered from a shaky start to his tenure to lead Arsenal to the Premier League title last season, their first since 2004. The club also reached the Champions League final, where they suffered a penalty shootout defeat to PSG.
In a statement, Arsenal said: 'The new agreement reflects our shared belief that the progress we've made and last season's success is the beginning of a special period in our history.'
'Mikel became our seventh title-winning manager last season as we were crowned champions for the 14th time. It was our fourth Premier League title and our first in 22 years.'
Arteta's record and reaction
The former Gunners midfielder has taken charge of 361 matches since returning to the club, with a win percentage of 62%, the best of any full-time manager in Arsenal's history.
'It's a privilege to commit my future to the club and to continue to work with exceptional people who want the best for Arsenal,' Arteta said. 'This club is unique, its character and the way it makes you feel, and I have a great sense of privilege that our journey together will continue.'
'We have already built a special bond and created memories that will last a lifetime, and what is so exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can achieve together.'
Kroenkes' joint statement
Arsenal co-chairs Stan and Josh Kroenke released a joint statement praising Arteta and looking ahead to the future. 'It has been an incredible journey so far and we are excited for what lies ahead in this special relationship,' they said.
'We share a special bond with Mikel. We are so proud of everything we have achieved since he returned to the club in 2019. He has a deep understanding of Arsenal's values and carries them in his heart.'
Arsenal won their first seven games of the season, including the Community Shield against Manchester City, before a 3-0 defeat to Brighton before the international break. The Premier League champions return to action on Saturday with a home match against Leeds United, who are fifth after a strong start to the campaign.
