Mikel Arteta has sought to alleviate any concerns among Arsenal supporters regarding his future with the club, asserting his commitment despite entering the final year of his contract. Arteta led Arsenal to their first Premier League title in 20 years in May, a feat that prompted co-chairman Josh Kroenke to declare securing the Spaniard on a new deal an "utmost priority."
While a new contract has not yet materialized, Arteta indicated that discussions are not an immediate concern for the club. "They (the fans) don't have to worry about any of that, because I want to be here. I am extremely happy. I feel very grateful to work with the people that I work with and when we have the possibility, we will resolve that," Arteta stated. He added that the focus remains on other priorities, with "everybody feels comfortable that the time on the contract is not going to be an issue."
Arteta, 44, joined Arsenal as head coach in December 2019. His tenure has seen a period of sustained success, including an FA Cup victory in his second year, followed by three consecutive second-place finishes in the Premier League from 2023 to 2025, culminating in last season's title win. The team also reached their first Champions League final in two decades last season, though they were defeated by Paris Saint-Germain on penalties.
Arteta also commented on the current summer transfer market, expressing surprise at the inflated fees being paid for players. He noted the significant sums spent by other clubs, such as Morgan Rogers' £117 million move to Chelsea and Elliot Anderson's £116 million transfer to Manchester City. Arsenal, meanwhile, has been more reserved, with their marquee signing, Bruno Guimaraes, acquired for £75 million. The club also secured striker Christos Tzolis for £34 million and made Piero Hincapie's loan move permanent for £35 million.
"Yes, it has (transfer fees surprised me). I wouldn't bet on that (such high prices), to be fair. But that's the market," Arteta said. "There are clubs that are happy to invest or they believe that the valuations of those players are that. And that's fair. At the end, the value of a player is what somebody can pay for you and they've done it."
Regarding player development, Arteta hinted that 19-year-old Ethan Nwaneri might seek more playing time elsewhere. Nwaneri spent part of last season on loan at Marseille and is reportedly being monitored by clubs including Galatasaray. "It's unquestionable the talent, the desire, the love and the passion he has for the game," Arteta said of Nwaneri. "I want him to be at the club, but only if it's something that, in the medium to long term, is best for the player as well. Ethan needs to play football and if he stays here it's because we can guarantee that he can have those minutes. Otherwise it's just something that is not good for anybody, I think."
Arsenal is scheduled to face Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday. The match is set to kick off at 3 p.m. and will be broadcast on TNT Sports.