Mikel Arteta Signs New Contract, Extending Stay as Arsenal Manager Until 2027

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has signed a new contract extending his stay at the club until 2027. Arteta has been a transformative figure since joining Arsenal in December 2019, leading the team to become a top competitor in the English Premier League. His contract extension brings stability and clear direction for the club's future.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta inked a new contract on Thursday, extending his tenure at the club until 2027.

"I feel very inspired, I feel challenged, I feel supported and I want to do much more than what we've already done together," Arteta stated.

Since joining Arsenal in December 2019, the 42-year-old Spanish coach has transformed the team into Manchester City's main rival for the English Premier League title, finishing runner-up in the last two seasons.

Speculation had linked Arteta as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola at City, especially with his previous contract expiring at the end of the season.

"We are really happy that Mikel has signed a new long-term contract. It's a very positive and proud moment for everyone at the club," commented Arsenal's sporting director Edu.

Edu praised Arteta, saying, "Mikel has shown his qualities since the very first day he joined us, not only as a football manager but also as a person with wonderful values. We have a strong belief in what we are doing and what we want to achieve together. Mikel's new contract gives us stability and clear direction as we aim for new heights."

Arteta had previously served as Guardiola's assistant at City before succeeding Unai Emery at Arsenal, leading the team to an FA Cup victory in his first season.

Two seasons ago, Arsenal spent 248 days at the top of the league but ultimately lost the title to City, making them the team that has spent the longest time in first place without being crowned league champion.

Last season, Arsenal narrowed the gap further, taking the title race down to the final day and finishing just two points behind Guardiola's team.

"Mikel is a dynamic and passionate manager who is relentless in the pursuit of excellence," Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke said. "He has a deep understanding of Arsenal's values, and since joining us as head coach in December 2019, he has taken the team to another level in an Arsenal way."

(With inputs from agencies.)