🔗 Share this article Arsenal's Manager Acknowledges Extended Stay Hinges on Winning Trophies. On the eve of his six-year milestone at the helm, Mikel Arteta has stated plainly that his longevity in North London is directly connected to winning major honors. The Journey So Far: From Appointment to Present Arteta was appointed on December 20th, 2019 and managed to steer the team to an FA Cup victory not long after. Yet, that early success is still his sole major honor after taking over from Unai Emery. “I can,” the manager said upon being asked about remaining in charge after his current deal. “However, it is about today. And numerous factors have to happen in the coming months as well to earn the right.” He will mark the six-year milestone with a match versus Everton, the exact opponent Arsenal played the day after his appointment was announced. Present Challenges Given that chasing Manchester City playing against West Ham earlier in the day, Arsenal risk losing the summit in the Premier League prior to their fixture. This situation arises notwithstanding Arteta presiding over a squad that has been plagued by over 100 injuries over the course of last season. He currently has 18 months remaining on the extension he agreed to in 2024, yet understands fully that results must come promptly. The Manager's Mandate The manager expanded, highlighting the daily requirement to validate his position. “My belief is that a manager has to earn the right to be here tomorrow. And that is determined by how you react, how you address the media, how you enter the dressing room, the message you convey.” He added, commending the consistent faith from the hierarchy, yet identifying the players' commitment as the key factor. “At the end, the most important ones are those players... Over this half-decade, I’ve seen just players with a level of attention, desire to learn and give the maximum to the team.” Squad Setbacks The team heads into the Everton match dealing with an additional absence. Defender Ben White has been sidelined with a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out for several weeks. Confidence in the Path Despite the availability issues and the high-stakes environment, Arteta believes the club's “focus and dialogue” are completely changed from when he initially took over. Arteta highlighted the record-breaking achievements as a sign they are nearing their goal. “Examine the performances, all the club records that were shattered... We still haven't been able to do that [win trophies]. But that indicates the level we are at.” He finished by saying, “That is a level that the Premier League has never experienced in the past. And our aim is to achieve greater objectives. And if we do that, I think we are on the proper course to winning.”