Mikel Arteta has given a clear answer about Arsenal’s ambitions next season.
The Gunners spent the majority of last season at the top of the Premier League table but faltered in the final few weeks of the campaign to finish five points behind eventual winners Manchester City. It remained an overwhelmingly positive season for the north London club, though, as they finished in the Champions League places for the first time since 2016.
It was something of a surprise title challenge from Arteta’s men, having finished 5th the previous year. However, Arteta has reiterated his desire for Arsenal to push for top spot after being asked by Marca if it was possible for the Gunners to win the title next season.
“If not, I would not be sitting here. That is our ambition,” Arteta said. “We know the difficulty: it is the best League in the world and next season is going to be the most difficult League in the history of the Premier. Because? Last year it already was.
“I've been here for 22 years and I've never seen a competitive level like that. So much quality, so much organisation, so many resources, such good coaches... and now Pochettino and Iraola have arrived. The level is that and to win the Premier you must be the best. That is why it has to be strengthened.”
READ MORE: Mikel Arteta breaks silence on Kai Havertz Arsenal transfer and explains hefty £65m price tag
Arsenal’s title aspirations have been evidenced by their transfer plans so far. football.london understands that the club have agreed a deal worth up to £65million for Chelsea forward Kai Havertz, subject to a medical. Meanwhile the club are also rivalling Man City in a big-money move for West Ham captain Declan Rice as Arteta looks to build his title-winning side.
