When Arsenal, the Premier League leaders, travel to Everton on Saturday, it will be a special occasion for Spanish manager Mikel Arteta, who is marking his sixth year in charge. This comes at a crucial stage of the season, as the Gunners look to maintain their two-point lead and keep their long-awaited dream of winning the league title, which has eluded the club for over two decades, alive.
Reconstruction and Identity Project
Since taking charge in December 2019, Arteta has led the London club on a radical transformation. After years of technical and administrative turmoil following the Arsène Wenger era, the young manager has successfully restructured the team, relying on a blend of young talent and experienced players. These efforts have already yielded early results, including an FA Cup victory and two Community Shield titles. However, the ultimate goal remains the Premier League title, which has eluded the team in the last three seasons, during which they have finished as runners-up.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Arteta recalled the beginnings, saying: "One person cannot change everything, especially when we talk about the scale of the challenges at this great club. You need a group of good, dedicated people around you who share the same vision, work ethic, and passion.".
The Spanish coach stressed the importance of the support he received, adding: "I am very fortunate to have the support of the senior management and all the decision-makers. But most important of all are the players; it is essential that they are convinced of what you ask of them, and I am grateful for their full commitment and for moving in the direction I set every day.".
An emotional confrontation against "The Master" David Moyes
The match holds special significance for Arteta, as he faces his former manager, David Moyes, the current Everton boss. Arteta played under Moyes at Toffees for six years before moving to Arsenal in 2011, a period that honed his leadership qualities.
Regarding this relationship, Arteta said: "I think he taught me to love the game and the integrity it demands, whatever the circumstances. For me, he's an exceptional person, and I owe him a lot, both for what he gave me personally and for Everton." It's worth noting that Moyes has a strong record against his former protégé, having lost only one of his last five encounters with Arsenal under Arteta's management.
Injury challenges and the new stadium
On the tactical front, Arsenal face challenges related to absences, with Arteta confirming that the team will not have any injured players back this week. Defender Ben White will remain sidelined for several matches, while Kai Havertz and defender Gabriel Magalhães are nearing a return.
Arteta also expressed his excitement about playing the first match at Everton's new stadium, saying: "It's strange but very exciting… We have a chance to win in this fantastic stadium they've built." Arsenal are looking to break their recent away-game woes, having failed to win their last three away matches, including a defeat to Unai Emery's Aston Villa.
