The Gunners are all set for another London showdown at Stamford Bridge—can Arteta's magic pull off yet another iconic win?
Since taking over as manager of Arsenal in December 2019, Mikel Arteta has overseen a transformation. The 2023-24 season saw the squad break a Premier League record with 27 victories, the highest in a 38-game season. They also advanced to the Champions League quarterfinals for the first time since 2009-10, gratifying fans’ long-held expectations of European glory.
Am I the only person who still believes in Mikel Arteta? pic.twitter.com/y5CmLilVWQ
— ⚡️ (@clinicalkai) November 4, 2024
Arteta was crowned Premier League Manager of the Month in February after scoring 18 goals and conceding none. He hopes to lead Arsenal to more success with his latest contract extension. As they prepare to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, let us reflect on some of their most recent triumphs under Arteta that have revived their confidence.
Arsenal roared into the title race in the 2023/24 season, defeating Chelsea 5-0 in a historic game. This was no ordinary victory; it was a statement. Leandro Trossard got the celebration began early, followed by Ben White and Kai Havertz, each of whom scored twice. It was vicious, unwavering, and left Chelsea shocked and reeling. Fans were ecstatic, and Arteta’s team demonstrated that they were more than simply in the championship hunt; they were here to set the pace. This triumph was memorable for the goals and how Arsenal moved, with every pass and tackle shouting desire.
Arsenal’s tenacity and passion were tested throughout the match against Bournemouth. As time wound down, it seemed Arsenal was on the verge of defeat. However, a comeback was brewing. Thomas Partey sparked the resurgence, followed by Ben White’s equalizer, which set the stage for Reiss Nelson’s dramatic winner in the final moments. Imagine the scene— in the 97th minute, the tension at Emirates Stadium was palpable until Nelson delivered a stunning volley into the far corner.
It was a beautiful moment, showcasing the fierce resilience instilled in this squad by Arteta. Some supporters may argue that this match was more than just a victory; it represented a promise. Arsenal demonstrated that they will not give up, no matter how daunting the circumstances become.
Facing Manchester City is more than just another game; it’s a battle. For 15 matches, City had tormented Arsenal, winning one after the other. However, this time, Arteta had something special planned. Arsenal finally broke their 12-game losing streak against City thanks to a deflected strike from Gabriel Martinelli. Although it was only one goal, it carried the weight of years of frustration, resulting in a sudden, ecstatic explosion of joy at the Emirates. Arsenal managed to keep City’s attacking force at bay, limiting them to just four shots—something that hadn’t happened since Pep Guardiola’s time with Barcelona. Returning from injury, Martinelli played the hero, showcasing the depth of Arteta’s squad.
Arsenal have won three successive away league matches against Tottenham for the first time since 1988. 🤯
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) September 15, 2024
Tottenham 0-2 Arsenal (2022/23) ✅
Tottenham 2-3 Arsenal (2023/24) ✅
Tottenham 0-1 Arsenal (2024/25) ✅ pic.twitter.com/f7R9srZ00F
Winning the North London Derby has a special appeal. Arsenal achieved just that in 2022/23, winning three points and doing it in style against Tottenham. In a heated match, Arsenal displayed control, passion, and just the proper amount of flair. Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard took the Emirates fans to their feet, cementing Arsenal’s claim to North London dominance under Arteta’s command. It was more than a derby victory; it symbolised a shifting tide for Arsenal’s benefit.