One of Mikel Arteta’s primary challenges upon taking the reins at Arsenal was to improve the club’s Premier League record against the ‘Traditional Top 6’ teams. For over a decade, and particularly during the latter years of Arsène Wenger’s tenure, this had been a persistent issue. Wenger’s struggles against the league’s elite sides became glaringly apparent, with several heavy defeats to Chelsea, Manchester City, and Liverpool leaving a number of fans disillusioned and eager for change.
When Unai Emery succeeded Wenger, there was initial optimism that his tactical nous and European pedigree would translate to better results against top domestic opposition. There were glimmers of hope, notably a memorable victory over Tottenham Hotspur, but inconsistency and frustrating defeats lingered, casting doubts over Emery’s ability to consistently deliver on the big stage.
Enter Mikel Arteta. In his first season, there were signs of a shift. Gritty, hard-fought victories against Liverpool and Manchester United showed promise, though it was clear that the transformation would take time. Fast forward to the last two seasons, and Arteta has not only delivered but excelled—Arsenal have gone unbeaten in 19 consecutive Premier League matches against the traditional Top 6. Under his leadership, the Gunners are no longer a soft touch; they are tactically astute, resilient on the road, and electrifying at the Emirates.
Style of Play
In the 2022/23 season, Arteta’s side played with an exhilarating sense of freedom, characterized by fluid, attacking football. This style powered Arsenal’s first genuine title challenge in years. However, recognizing the need for greater control and consistency, Arteta has since evolved the team into a more pragmatic, tactically disciplined unit.
Today’s Arsenal are all about control—whether that’s dictating play with possession with the use of inverted full backs, maintaining shape when sitting deep, or pressing aggressively without the ball. The pressing game is now spearheaded by Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard, while the wide players, typically Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, diligently track back to support defensively. This is one of Arteta’s non negotiables, as he demands that all players work for each other off the ball. Arteta’s men can dominate at home, but are equally comfortable inviting pressure with the formidable partnership of Gabriel and Saliba, whilst being able to counter effectively when away to their rivals.
Key Individuals
Arteta’s rebuild has centred around assembling a physically dominant, technically gifted spine, complemented by pace and flair in attack. Historically, Arsenal’s spine was a vulnerability; now, it’s a strength.
David Raya
Many fans initially questioned Arteta’s decision to sign David Raya in the summer of 2023, particularly given their attachment to Aaron Ramsdale. Yet, Raya has firmly established himself as Arsenal’s long-term No. 1. Calm and composed, he is adept with the ball at his feet, often dictating the tempo and deciding whether Arsenal build patiently or go direct.
David Raya is equally as astute when it comes to claiming crosses, he had the highest claim completion from crosses in the league in the 23/24 campaign. His presence has added composure and reliability at the back.
Gabriel Magalhães
Once seen as secondary to William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães has emerged as a leader within the team. His towering presence, both defensively and offensively, has made him a fan favourite. Whether celebrating vital goals from set-pieces or making crucial defensive interventions, Gabriel epitomizes the warrior spirit Arteta demands. He wins duels, puts his body on the line, and leads by example. Additionally, No defender has more goals than Gabriel since he made his debut for Arsenal in September 2020, showcasing his elite level arial ability and the fear he strikes in the opposition.
Declan Rice
Declan Rice’s British record transfer from West Ham to Arsenal has been nothing short of transformative. Slotting seamlessly into midfield, Rice’s versatility allows him to excel in both the No. 6 and No. 8 roles. This season, Arteta has predominantly deployed him as a box-to-box midfielder, and Rice’s energy, defensive intelligence, and leadership have been pivotal.
He is crucial to Arsenal’s high press, frequently winning possession in advanced areas. Moreover, his knack for scoring vital goals—such as his dramatic 90th-minute winner against Manchester United—has quickly endeared him to fans. Rice has also become Arsenal’s primary left-sided corner taker, contributing an eye watering 7 assists from set pieces since the start of last season.
Bukayo Saka
Few players are as vital to Arsenal’s attacking potency as Bukayo Saka. Before his recent injury, Saka had already tallied 10 Premier League assists and was on course to challenge Thierry Henry’s record of 20 assists in a single season.
Saka’s combination of pace, technical ability, and bravery makes him one of the most feared wingers in Europe. His partnership with Martin Ødegaard on the right flank is integral to Arsenal’s attacking fluidity. Off the ball, Saka’s maturity shines through—tracking back tirelessly, winning crucial fouls, and stepping up in decisive moments, including penalty duties. His development has been nothing short of remarkable, establishing himself as Arsenal’s talisman.
Memorable Results
In the 19 Games that Mikel Arteta is now unbeaten against his rivals, he has produced some memorable matches that will stick in the memory of the fans for a long time. Here are 5 games that stand out.
Arsenal 3-1 Liverpool (Home) – February 4th 2024
Arsenal tightened the Premier League title race with a dominant 3-1 win over Liverpool at the Emirates, closing the gap to just two points. The Gunners were in full control, and although a defensive mistake between Virgil van Dijk and Alisson handed Gabriel Martinelli the chance to restore their lead in the 67th minute, Arsenal’s performance deserved the result.
Leandro Trossard added the finishing touch in stoppage time, calmly sliding the ball through Alisson’s legs to seal the win. Bukayo Saka had given Arsenal the lead with a composed finish in the 14th minute, and despite a Gabriel own-goal on the stroke of halftime, the Gunners never lost their composure. Liverpool’s frustrations boiled over late in the game, with Ibrahima Konate sent off for a foul on Kai Havertz, but Arsenal were fully deserving of their three points, underlining their strength in the title race.
Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United (Home) – September 3rd 2023
Arsenal secured a thrilling 3-1 win over Manchester United at the Emirates, with two late goals deep into stoppage time sealing the victory. The game seemed set for a draw after United had a goal disallowed and Arsenal’s penalty was overturned. But Declan Rice delivered a dramatic moment, scoring his first goal for the club with a deflected shot in the 96th minute to give Arsenal the lead. Gabriel Jesus then added a second, confirming the win. The result showcased Arsenal’s resilience and attacking quality, reinforcing their place as one of the Premier League’s top contenders.
Tottenham Hostpur 2-3 Arsenal (Away) – April 28 2024
In a pulsating North London derby at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Arsenal edged out Spurs in a five-goal thriller. The Gunners displayed attacking flair and tactical discipline, overcoming their rivals. The Gunners were 3-0 up at half time, sending shockwaves in the home dressing room. Spurs came out strong in the second half, with the game being edgy in the latter stages. Although the Arsenal defence stood firm and earned a well-deserved 3-2 win over their rivals on enemy territory.
Manchester City 2-2 Arsenal (Away) – September 22, 2024
At the Etihad Stadium, Arsenal showcased resilience in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Manchester City. Erling Haaland gave City an early lead, but Arsenal responded with goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Magalhães, turning the tide before halftime. The Gunners faced adversity when Leandro Trossard received a red card, reducing them to ten men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, they defended resolutely with one of Arteta’s most bold choices, parking his side in his penalty box for the entire second half. City amassed 78% possessiona and 33 shots. It was only until stoppage time, when John Stones broke Arsenal fans hearts and scored in additional time. This was a performance where the fans were proud of the sides fight and resolute nature.
Arsenal 5-1 Manchester City (Home) – February 2, 2025
In a commanding display at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal dismantled reigning champions Manchester City with a 5-1 victory. The Gunners struck early, with captain Martin Ødegaard capitalizing on a defensive lapse to open the scoring within two minutes. Although Erling Haaland equalized for City in the 55th minute, Arsenal responded emphatically. Thomas Partey restored the lead with a deflected shot just a minute later. Myles Lewis-Skelly extended the advantage with a brilliant strike, followed by goals from Kai Havertz and Ethan Nwaneri, sealing a memorable win. This was a win where Arsenal were able to showcase their authority over the reigning champions. It was also chance for Myles Lewis Skelly to let Erling Haaland know who he is, after the controversy from the previous game earlier in the season.
Final Thoughts
Mikel Arteta has not only revitalised Arsenal but has also decisively ended the club’s inferiority complex against the Premier League’s elite. His tactical evolution, coupled with shrewd recruitment and an unwavering focus on discipline, has created a side that competes with the very best.
Arsenal fans can now confidently look forward to big fixtures, knowing their team is more than capable of standing toe-to-toe with any rival. Their next test will stand as their biggest yet, as they travel to Anfield, hoping to stop Liverpool winning the league when they visit Merseyside.
Arteta will now be looking at how to finish the season strongly with a monumental match up in the champions league against Real Madrid to come. He will need his side to show the form they have in the league over the past two seasons if they are to do the unthinkable and knock out the Spanish giants. Arteta will then have his most important summer ahead of him with a huge cash injection expected and a search for a striker well and truly in his sights.