Arsenal: Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta has moved to calm concerns over his long-term future at the club, insisting he is 'extremely happy' in north London despite entering the final year of his contract. The Spanish coach said there was no cause for alarm among supporters, explaining that discussions over a new deal would happen naturally, while the club's immediate focus remains on transfer business ahead of the new season.
According to Ghana Web, Arsenal co-chairman Josh Kroenke had previously described extending Arteta's contract as a top priority, but the manager has downplayed any urgency ahead of the Community Shield clash against Manchester City in Cardiff. Arteta, who took charge of Arsenal in December 2019, has enjoyed a successful spell at the Emirates Stadium, winning an FA Cup, two Community Shields, and ending the club's 22-year wait for a Premier League title last season. He also guided the Gunners to only the second UEFA Champions League final in their history.
Arteta addressed the fans directly, saying, "They 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. And that's it," during his pre-match press conference. He emphasized that transfer activities were currently taking precedence over contract discussions.
"There is always another priority, I think! And that's the way we have been treating it, I think because everybody feels comfortable that the time on the contract is not going to be an issue," Arteta remarked. He further highlighted the strong relationship between himself and the club's hierarchy, stating, "I think because my will, certainly, is to be here and I am very happy here. My feeling from the club is the same one. That is why everyone is doing things in a really organic way."
The 44-year-old has won 213 of his 353 competitive matches in charge of Arsenal and will now seek to guide the club to a record-extending 18th Community Shield title, with only Manchester United having won the trophy more times.