Arteta sets excellence as standard for Arsenal’s new season
Mikel Arteta has returned to pre-season training, expressing renewed energy and outlining objectives for the upcoming campaign. Two months after a victory parade through Islington following a title-winning triumph, Arteta is focused on building on past success. The squad is currently in Spain, preparing for a pre-season match against Girona.
Arteta described the atmosphere among the players as pre-season resumed, noting their high energy and improved physical condition. He observed that the players returned in better shape than before, which he sees as indicative of the club’s desired direction and established culture. He also highlighted the players’ engagement in training, their questions, and their ambition as positive signs.
He mentioned that seeing everyone return with the same spirit after a significant season, and with such energy and desire, was touching. The focus is now on the season ahead, as the club prepares for its first title defence in 22 years.
Setting new standards
Arteta stated that the recent success must serve as a starting point and establish a new standard. He emphasised that excellence must be the benchmark, driving the team to approach the future with determination and ambition. He believes the team has demonstrated its capabilities and now needs to show consistency at this level.
The squad is in the process of reintegrating players who participated in the World Cup. Arteta explained that different schedules are in place for players based on their progress in the tournament. He noted that the attitude behind the programme is more crucial than the programme itself, citing players like Kai, Viktor, Piero, and Declan who are eager to return.
He added that adapting to the evolving context presents many opportunities, as most players gained valuable experience and delivered strong performances last season.
Transfer market activity
Despite being recognised as a prominent club in European football, Arsenal has been deliberate in the transfer market this summer. The club has made two signings: goalkeeper Illan Meslier and forward Christos Tzolis. Reports indicate that the club was interested in Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers but he joined Chelsea, and efforts are ongoing to sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle.
Arteta confirmed that discussions are taking place regarding transfers. He stated that from the ownership to the board, the sporting director, and himself, there is a collective desire to elevate the club. This objective will require a stronger squad and improved individual players. He mentioned that areas for growth, improvement, and game evolution have been identified, and the club hopes to implement concrete plans soon.
Arteta concluded by acknowledging the supporters’ role in the previous season’s success and the potential for continued rewards through the growing connection across the club. He highlighted the impact of collective efforts, including fan contributions like tifo displays, on the team’s performance. He stressed that everyone involved, from designers to those building displays, should feel their contribution is valuable due to its impact.
He added that the club’s greatest strength lies in the connection and identity shared among everyone, and this should be evident in every interaction. Arteta‘s ambition is for the team to consistently meet daily standards and requirements to improve each subsequent day. He emphasised the importance of maintaining ambition, discipline, commitment, and positive energy throughout the 11 months of the season, believing that achieving this will place the club in a strong position in May.
Arsenal is scheduled to play their first pre-season friendly against Girona in Spain this weekend.
Source: arsenal.com
Reuben Castle is the Sports News Writer at News GB, covering rugby union, golf and boxing with six years of reporting experience. He moved from print into digital sport news. He holds a degree in Journalism from Coventry University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Coventry, he follows the Open Championship and amateur boxing. “Accuracy first; the analysis can follow.”
