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Ahead of marking his sixth anniversary at the helm, Mikel Arteta has admitted that his longevity in North London is inextricably linked to achieving success.

The Journey So Far: The Arteta Era

The former Arsenal captain assumed control on 20 December 2019 and promptly led the team to an FA Cup victory not long after. However, that early success stands as his only major honor following the departure of Unai Emery.

“Absolutely,” the manager said when questioned about remaining in charge after his current deal. “But it’s about today. And a lot of things have to happen in the coming months as well to earn the right.”

This weekend sees the six-year milestone with a fixture against Everton, the identical team Arsenal played just after his appointment was announced.

League Position and Pressure

As second-placed Manchester City playing against West Ham earlier in the day, Arsenal face being knocked off top spot in the Premier League before their own match begins. This comes even with Arteta presiding over a squad that has endured more than a century of fitness issues since the start of last season.

He is tied down by 18 months remaining on the deal he signed in 2024, however, he knows that success is required in the immediate future.

The Manager's Mandate

He went on to explain, highlighting the ongoing need to justify his role. “I think a manager has to earn the right to be here tomorrow. And that depends on how you react, how you communicate, how you step into the dressing room, the message you convey.”

He added, commending the unwavering support from the board and owners, yet identifying the players' commitment as the key factor. “At the end, the key individuals are those players... During my tenure, I’ve seen just players with a degree of commitment, desire to learn and dedicate themselves to the team.”

Latest Fitness Blow

The squad faces the Everton match coping with yet another injury. Defender Ben White has been declared unavailable with a muscle problem that is expected to keep him out for the coming weeks.

Evolved Priorities

Regardless of the fitness woes and the immense scrutiny, Arteta believes the club's “objectives and communication” are completely changed from when he first arrived.

Arteta highlighted the team's performances as proof they are close. “Consider the performances, all the historical marks we surpassed... We still haven't been able to do that [win trophies]. But that tells you the standard we operate at.”

In closing, the manager stated, “That is a level that the Premier League has never experienced in the past. And our aim is to achieve more lofty ambitions. And if we do that, I think we are on the proper course to winning.”