Within hours of his homeland Spain clinching the European Championship, which saw four of his players involved in the final, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta made his way to the Premier League club’s London Colney base, marking the official start of their 2024-25 pre-season. Arsenal, now well into their U.S. pre-season tour, recently drew 1-1 with fellow Premier League side Bournemouth in a friendly held in Los Angeles on Wednesday night (early Thursday UK time). On the day when the preparations for the new season officially began, there was a palpable sense of enthusiasm and anticipation for what lies ahead. Arteta, understandably in high spirits, returned to work exuding excitement and determination—qualities he consistently brings to the table. His presence and leadership are integral to the club, making it difficult to imagine Arsenal without him. However, his contract is set to expire at the end of the upcoming season, presenting a potential point of concern. Despite this looming deadline, there appears to be no panic or anxiety within the club. Everyone seems to be waiting for the right moment to finalize the details of a new contract, which should ideally be done soon to avoid any future complications. Mikel Arteta’s Role and Influence at Arsenal Arteta’s Integral Role Mikel Arteta’s involvement in Arsenal goes beyond the typical duties of a manager. He is deeply embedded in the club’s decision-making processes and serves as the spiritual leader of the team. This unique positioning has made him a central figure at Arsenal, one whose influence permeates every aspect of the club. Decision-Making: Arteta is crucial to all major decisions regarding the first team. Leadership: He serves as the club’s spiritual leader, embodying the ethos and values of Arsenal. Commitment: His deep-rooted connection to the club makes him indispensable. Contract Situation Arteta’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2024-25 season. Despite this, there is a surprising sense of calm within the club regarding his future. The general consensus is that a new deal will be agreed upon at the right time, although it would be prudent to finalize this soon to prevent any uncertainties. Expiration: Arteta’s contract ends in less than a year. General Sentiment: There is no immediate panic or anxiety about his departure. Future Steps: It is expected that a new contract will be agreed upon shortly. Arteta’s Tenure and Achievements Initial Appointment and Evolution Arteta rejoined Arsenal in December 2019, initially taking on the role of head coach. Within a few months, his status within the club was elevated to manager, reflecting his broader responsibilities and the club’s recognition of his potential. Initial Role: Rejoined as head coach in December 2019. Elevation: Promoted to manager in the summer of 2020. Recognition: The club acknowledged his potential and increased his responsibilities. Contract Extensions Over his four and a half seasons with Arsenal, Arteta has seen three significant contract renewals. Each new deal has come with increased responsibilities and a recognition of his growing influence within the club. First Contract: Signed as head coach in December 2019. Second Contract: Promoted to manager with broader responsibilities in 2020. Third Contract: Further extension in 2022, reflecting his growing influence. Arteta’s Relationship with Arsenal Hierarchy Trust and Support Arteta enjoys a high level of trust and support from the club’s hierarchy. This includes sporting director Edu, owners Stan Kroenke, and the more directly involved Josh Kroenke. This strong rapport contrasts sharply with the more turbulent times during the latter part of Arsene Wenger’s tenure. Trust: Arteta is trusted implicitly by the club’s hierarchy. Support: The club has shown considerable backing by providing him with the tools he needs. Contrast: This harmonious relationship contrasts with the more challenging years under Wenger. Harmony at the Top The current relationship between Arteta and the club’s executive team is marked by harmony and mutual support. This has allowed Arsenal to build a team that mirrors Arteta’s vision and philosophy. Harmony: The relationship is solid, amiable, and supportive. Vision: This harmony has enabled the club to build a team in Arteta’s image. Achievements and Future Goals Meeting Initial Aims Arteta’s most recent contract, signed two years ago, outlined several ambitious goals for the club. These included playing in the Champions League, evolving the team, improving player performance, and enhancing the overall atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium. All of these aims have been met. Champions League: The team has achieved the goal of playing in the Champions League. Team Evolution: Continuous improvement in team performance and player development. Fan Connection: Enhanced atmosphere and stronger connection with fans. Future Challenges As Arsenal looks forward to the 2024-25 season, the team faces significant challenges. How they respond to the experiences of the previous season and tweak their squad before the transfer window closes will be crucial. Adding fresh talent could invigorate the team dynamics and provide the necessary push to compete at the highest level. Response: The team needs to respond to the experiences of the past season. Squad Tweaks: Adjustments to the squad before the transfer window closes will be crucial. Fresh Talent: Adding new players could invigorate the team dynamics. Pre-Season Preparations Marbella Camp Before the official pre-season kicked off, Arteta spent time with a small group of players at a pre-pre-season camp in Marbella. This relaxed setting allowed for high-quality personal time between the coaching staff and players, fostering a stronger bond. Location: Pre-pre-season camp in Marbella. Atmosphere: A relaxed setting that combines training and leisure. Bonding: High-quality personal time between coaching staff and players. U.S. Pre-Season Tour Arsenal’s U.S. pre-season tour has already seen the team play a friendly against Bournemouth, resulting in a 1-1 draw. This tour is crucial for building team chemistry and preparing for the upcoming season. Tour: U.S. pre-season tour. Match: Friendly against Bournemouth resulting in a 1-1 draw. Preparation: Crucial for building team chemistry. FAQs What is Mikel Arteta’s current contract situation? Arteta’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2024-25 season. There is a general