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On the eve of his sixth anniversary as manager, Mikel Arteta has admitted that his future at Arsenal is fundamentally dependent to achieving success.

A Look Back: From Appointment to Present

Arteta assumed control on the 20th of December in 2019 and promptly led the team to an FA Cup triumph within months. However, that early success is still his lone top-tier trophy since succeeding Unai Emery.

“I can,” the manager said in response to a query about remaining in charge after his current deal. “Yet it's about today. And many things need to fall into place in the near future as well to deserve that opportunity.”

Saturday night brings the landmark with a game facing Everton, the exact opponent Arsenal faced the day after his hiring was confirmed.

League Position and Pressure

As chasing Manchester City set to face West Ham on Saturday afternoon, Arsenal could be displaced top spot in the Premier League before their own match begins. This situation arises notwithstanding Arteta presiding over a squad that has endured over 100 injuries over the course of last season.

He currently has a year and a half left on the deal he signed in 2024, but is acutely aware that he must deliver promptly.

Earning the Right

Arteta elaborated, stressing the constant necessity to justify his role. “In my view a manager needs to warrant the right to be here tomorrow. And that depends on how you react, how you address the media, how you enter the dressing room, the signal you send.”

He added, expressing gratitude for the strong backing from the club's ownership, yet identifying the players' commitment as most crucial. “In the final analysis, the critical component are those players... For six years, I’ve seen just players with a degree of commitment, willingness to improve and give the maximum to the team.”

Latest Fitness Blow

The team approaches the upcoming game coping with an additional absence. Defender Ben White has been ruled out with a muscle problem that is expected to keep him out for a few weeks.

Evolved Priorities

Despite the fitness woes and the immense scrutiny, Arteta is confident the club's “objectives and communication” are completely changed from when he first arrived.

Arteta highlighted the team's performances as evidence of progress. “Examine the performances, all the records that we... were breaking... We still have yet to do that [win trophies]. But that shows the level we are at.”

Arteta concluded, “That is a level that the Premier League has never experienced in the past. And we want to achieve more lofty ambitions. And if we do that, I think we are on the proper course to winning.”