Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, spoke candidly ahead of leading the team in the final match of the 2025-26 English Premier League season.
Mikel Arteta, the "Gunners" manager, said he had envisioned Arsenal's Premier League success as early as March, after ending a 22-year wait to claim the championship.
Arsenal was confirmed as the 2025-26 Premier League champion after Manchester City drew 1-1 away at Bournemouth on Tuesday, while Arsenal players celebrated watching the game at their club. Recently, Arteta stated in an interview that he saw the team winning the title since March.
"I imagined winning the championship many times, especially because we've come close several seasons before."
"But this time, particularly, there was something special. I've had a strong vision for several months now."
"I could close my eyes and see it clearly, and that was different from previous seasons."
"Not from the start of the season, but around March or April, I began thinking that way. I knew that period would define this season."
When asked what he imagined, Arteta replied, "It’s the image of me lifting the trophy. That’s it."
"I think I had to believe in myself first before I could transfer that commitment and energy to the team."
Arsenal will visit Crystal Palace in the final match of the 2025-26 English Premier League on Sunday, 24 May, at 22:00.