Gifted Markson
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is optimistic about the upcoming season as the team gears up for pre-season training.
With a refreshed squad and a few strategic signings, Arteta believes that the Gunners have the potential to make a significant impact in the Premier League.
Mikel Arteta has outlined his priorities for pre-season as he looks to build upon a record-breaking campaign last year.
In an extended interview, the manager reflected on last season’s title race that went right down to the wire and explained how his side can improve and go one better this time around.
Speaking during the close-season training camp in Marbella, Arteta said he was proud of many aspects of the team’s performances over the past couple of years, noting that the increased sense of belonging across the club and worldwide supporter base was a vital pillar of the recent improvements.
“There was absolutely no sense that he would be resting on his laurels – quite the opposite,” Arteta stated.
“The challenge now is to maintain those positive aspects that have proved so effective, while also improving the marginal differences that can ensure the team take another – hopefully decisive – step forward in 2024/25. We know the demands in the league and the competition we are facing. All the work we’re doing is to find ways to get better and to see where the margins can be for our improvement.”
“That pain [from last season] is still there and I think it has to remain there, but after analyzing the whole season with all the staff, the team has done a lot and probably in any other context we would have won the Premier League and that’s a big jump. But it’s not enough.”
The team broke several records last season, including setting new club bests for wins and goals in a Premier League season.
They also remained unbeaten in all 10 games against the rest of the traditional ‘big six’. Arteta believes this achievement is hugely significant and should give the players even more confidence.
“Yeah, that was very important,” Arteta continued.
“First of all, to give ourselves the chance to compete for the league but as well to show the consistency, the capabilities, and the quality against the top sides in the country. That we can actually beat them all in a consistent way and we can do it being dominant and deserving to win, which in my opinion is the most important thing. So that was another big stride but it’s not enough so we’re going to have to improve it again.”
Arteta emphasized the importance of pre-season games, noting that they will help the team integrate new players and develop a cohesive playing style.
“The players who arrive first are going to set the tone for the ones that are coming back later because we have four different groups coming at different stages in pre-season and they really have to feel that.
“For me, the best thing is when they come here on the first day and when they look at us, when they see the attitude and when they see the preparation, when they hear the words that we are using to start the preparation for this season, then they go ‘wow, this is going up a level again, so what we did last season is not going to be enough. If I want to play and I want to be competing in this team, I’m going to have to do something extra.’
“There are margins everywhere, and some of them can be tiny but can have a huge impact, but others are really big. First of all, we have to continue to do all the right things that we are doing in a consistent way, and if we can, do them a bit better. That’s the first part. Then the other one is ok, what are the other areas we can still improve and go for them and simplify everything we do in a really efficient way.
“Some people say you have to work a little bit more efficiently, I think we are going to try to work harder and be more efficient. That’s the objective.”
Fans are eagerly anticipating the return of football and are hopeful that Arteta’s vision and leadership will steer the club towards a successful season.
With a renewed sense of optimism, Arsenal supporters are looking forward to seeing their team compete at the highest level once again.