Arteta emphasizes that cultural change is the fundamental achievement during his six-year tenure at Arsenal. This transformation has allowed the team to achieve stability and consistently contend for major trophies. Today, 20/12, marks Arteta's six-year anniversary as head coach, as Arsenal travels to Merseyside to face Everton. The Spanish manager hopes to commemorate this milestone with a victory, further solidifying their position in the title race.

Head coach Mikel Arteta directs an Arsenal training session on 19/12. Photo: Arsenal FC

Arteta took charge of Arsenal from Unai Emery in late 2019, at a time when the club faced significant instability. Under his leadership, the Gunners have secured one FA Cup and two Community Shields, while consistently competing for the Premier League title over several seasons. In 226 Premier League matches, Arteta boasts 134 wins, 44 draws, and 48 losses, translating to a 59.3% win rate.

Currently, Arsenal sits atop the league table with 36 points, two points clear of Manchester City. Although the gap with the chasing pack has narrowed, many experts consider this season Arsenal's strongest chance in over 20 years to claim the English championship. Opta's supercomputer projects Arsenal with a 65.3% probability of finishing the season in the top spot.

Arteta, however, insists that success stems from a unified collective rather than individual effort. "One person cannot change everything alone, especially with major issues," the 43-year-old coach stated. "You need many talented, dedicated people who share the same vision, work ethic, and passion. I am fortunate to have that, particularly from the players, who consistently give 100% every day."

The Spanish manager considers the cultural transformation at Arsenal one of his most significant achievements over the past six years, establishing the groundwork for the team's consistent pursuit of major titles. "That was the initial foundation we had to build, and I believe it was established quite quickly," Arteta shared. "But maintaining it is extremely challenging, requiring many talented individuals and strong consensus. I believe Arsenal currently possesses a very solid structure."

The 43-year-old coach also highlighted comprehensive changes across the club, extending beyond on-pitch performance. "The change has occurred in many aspects: club size, revenue, squad building, team value, and professional performance. Although we have not yet secured any additional major titles, this stability indicates we are progressing in the right direction," he noted.

Arteta admitted that when he took the "hot seat" in 2019, it was difficult to envision leading Arsenal for six years. "I had never managed at the highest level, arriving at a club in a difficult period, with a less-than-positive precedent from previous coaches. It was hard to bet on that prospect," he expressed. "But this job requires daily effort, always trying your best. Ultimately, for a coach, everything still revolves around winning matches."

Today's trip to Hill Dickinson holds additional significance as Arteta reunites with David Moyes. During his playing career at Everton from 2005-2011, Arteta made 209 appearances under the Scottish manager's guidance. The two coaches have faced each other 10 times in the Premier League, with Arteta winning 6, drawing 3, and losing only 1.

"It's gratitude and admiration," Arteta said of Moyes. "He taught me many things, especially the integrity that football demands in all circumstances. Moyes is a respectable figure, not just for Everton but for English football." Despite Everton's inability to defeat Arsenal in their last 5 Premier League matches, Arteta remains cautious, particularly as the Gunners navigate a demanding festive period with a packed schedule. "This is a very demanding period with many consecutive matches," Arteta added. "But I see it as an opportunity. When everyone is on holiday, the atmosphere in the stadium is always very special, and that's something we need to enjoy."

Hong Duy (according to Arsenal.com)