After 22 years, Arsenal claims Premier League title under Arteta's leadership
Category: Arts & Culture
Mikel Arteta has been named the Barclays Manager of the Season for 2025/26, marking his first win of this prestigious accolade after leading Arsenal to their first Premier League title in 22 years. The announcement came as Arsenal concluded a remarkable season, finishing atop the league after a long wait since their last title in the 2003/04 season, when they went unbeaten under legendary manager Arsène Wenger. Arteta's achievement is particularly notable as he becomes the first Arsenal manager to receive this award since Wenger himself, who won it during each of his three title-winning campaigns.
The Gunners' triumph is a reflection of Arteta's strategic acumen and the team's solid performance throughout the season. Arsenal not only clinched the title but did so by demonstrating remarkable defensive strength, keeping clean sheets in 19 of their 38 matches and conceding only 27 goals—the best defensive record in the league. Offensively, they scored 71 goals, ranking second only to Manchester City, who netted 77 times. This blend of defensive solidity and attacking prowess has been central to their success.
Arteta, who played for Arsenal from 2011 to 2016, has now made history as the first manager to win the Premier League with a club he also represented as a player. At 44 years and 54 days old, he also ranks as the third-youngest manager to win the Premier League, following José Mourinho, who achieved this feat twice with Chelsea.
The 2025/26 season was not without its challenges. Rival teams, particularly Liverpool and Manchester City, posed a constant threat. After a shaky start, Liverpool faltered early in the season, allowing Arsenal to seize control. Following match day 7, Arsenal maintained the top position for all but two days until the season concluded. This season was characterized by a highly competitive middle table, with several teams vying for European spots and relegation battles extending to the final matches.
Arteta's managerial tenure has been a gradual rebuild since he took over in December 2019. After enduring three consecutive second-place finishes, the pressure was on him to deliver a title. The Gunners’ success this season can be attributed to a well-rounded squad, bolstered by strategic signings that improved depth in key positions. This allowed for effective rotation and management of player fatigue during a congested fixture list.
Arteta's tactical evolution has also played a role in Arsenal's resurgence. Moving away from the Guardiola-esque style that characterized his early tenure, he has adapted to a more physical approach that emphasizes set pieces and defensive organization. This shift has proven effective in a league that has become increasingly competitive.
As they celebrate their league triumph, Arsenal's focus now shifts to the UEFA Champions League. They are set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the final on Saturday in Budapest, aiming to secure their first Champions League title. This match presents an opportunity for Arteta and his squad to solidify their legacy and to cap off a historic season with a double.
Arteta's recognition as Manager of the Season comes after a voting process that combined public input with assessments from a panel of football experts. His competitors included notable figures such as Manchester City's Pep Guardiola, Brentford's Keith Andrews, and Sunderland's Regis Le Bris, all of whom had commendable seasons in their own right. Nevertheless, Arteta emerged as the clear favorite, underscoring the significance of Arsenal's achievements.
The season was also marked by managerial turnover across the league, with 11 managers dismissed, illustrating the high stakes and pressures within the Premier League. As clubs prepare for the summer transfer window, the focus will be on how teams can reinforce their squads and challenge for the title next season.
In winning the Barclays Manager of the Season award, Arteta has not only fulfilled the expectations placed upon him but has also laid the groundwork for a promising future at Arsenal. With the club's renewed sense of ambition and success, supporters are hopeful that this is just the beginning of a new era.