Mikel Arteta pulled off a new signing last month.
Not a right-back to aid Arsenal 's defensive injury crisis, but a chocolate Labrador to boost the mood around their London Colney training ground. The female dog, named 'Win', is giving Gunnersaurus a run for his money as their new mascot, spending most days at the club's base in Hertfordshire.
With the Premier League title race approaching crunch point in April, Arteta decided to trust research which shows that petting a dog can be calming, improve someone's mood and reduce stress levels. When Aaron Ramsdale penned his new long-term contract with Arsenal this week, Arteta walked Win into the room to be part of the moment, the Times reports.
The Gunners boss believes that she adds to the growing feeling of togetherness within the club and continues to make Arsenal feel like a family. And Win isn't afraid of the Gunners' other resident pet, a cat called Bob, who was adopted when his local owner died.
Stars Ramsdale, Bukayo Saka and Ben White had a cat for company during England 's campaign at the World Cup in Qatar last year. 'Dave' would spent time with the Three Lions during free time, seemingly improving the atmosphere in the camp.
Win has a primary owner who takes care of her outside of footballing hours, with Labradors known to be fun-loving, affectionate and playful. Unfortunately, she hasn't been able to help the Gunners over the line, as rivals Manchester City can win the title as soon as this weekend should results go their way.
Have your say! Will Arsenal challenge for the Premier League title next season? Join the debate in the comments section.
City will be confirmed as title winners for the third year in a row if Arsenal lose to relegation contenders Nottingham Forest on Saturday. If the Gunners take all three points or just come away with a draw, then Pep Guardiola 's reigning champions will only need to match that result when they host Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Ahead of the trip to Nottingham, Arteta affirmed that his players will do all they can in the hope of somehow clawing City back, despite them being four points clear with one more game to play. "Let's see where we finish in the next two games," the Spaniard told a press conference.
"Pain is part of football - when you don’t win, when you don't perform at your level, it has to hurt. It has to hurt the right way and you have to use that pain to become better and to find answers and solutions that can help you win more. This is what we're trying to do every single day."
