Arsenal's triumphant Premier League title win in the 2025-26 season, their first in 22 years, was the result of a meticulously crafted strategy by manager Mikel Arteta, according to a new book by Daily Mail journalist Isaan Khan. The book, "22 Years," chronicles the behind-the-scenes efforts that transformed the team and ended their long title drought.
Arteta, who took over in 2019, implemented a philosophy centered on unwavering dedication and a focus on player character. He is described as arriving at the training ground by 7 a.m. daily and demanding the same commitment from his squad. A key aspect of his approach involved cultivating stability within the team, notably by prioritizing players who were married or in long-term relationships, believing they would be more grounded and stable. Before signing key players like Declan Rice, Arteta reportedly sought character assessments from their teammates.
Attention to Detail
The manager's pursuit of performance improvement extended to minute details. At Arsenal's Emirates stadium, Arteta had the outer cover of the players' tunnel removed to amplify crowd noise as they entered the pitch. In preparation for an away match at Liverpool, he repeatedly played "You'll Never Walk Alone" during training sessions to desensitize his players to the intimidating anthem. The book also highlights an unconventional training exercise where professional pickpockets were hired to steal from players during a team dinner, emphasizing the need for constant alertness.
Arteta's management style was characterized by an uncompromising approach to both players and media. He fostered a culture where only maximum effort was acceptable, even drawing on methods from former colleagues like Gabriel Heinze, who reportedly weighed players twice daily. When questioned by a journalist about not signing a striker during the 2022-23 season, Arteta's irritation was palpable, though he reportedly restrained his reaction until cameras were off.
Despite his demanding nature, Arteta also demonstrated a supportive side. Upon learning that a staff member's son was being bullied, he invited the boy to meet the players and use club facilities, aiming to boost his confidence.
The culmination of these efforts was marked by a symbolic moment on the night Arsenal secured the title. Player Myles Lewis-Skelly reportedly held up a champagne bottle, quipping, "They called us bottlers, but now we're holding a bottle!" This victory put an end to a 22-year wait for the Premier League trophy, with the team celebrating their achievement on a victory tour in North London. The book, "22 Years," is available from the Mail Bookshop.