Arteta sets Arsenal a huge target: “We want to be the best club in the world”

Arsenal determined to build on Premier League triumph

Mikel Arteta has challenged Arsenal to go beyond their first Premier League title in 22 years, declaring that the club’s ambition is to become “the best club in the world.” The Gunners begin their title defence against Coventry on Friday night, entering the new campaign as favourites after a dominant 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield.

Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the new season, Arteta said Arsenal’s ambitions extend well beyond simply retaining the Premier League crown. “It’s certainly the ambition of the club and the owners to be the best club in the world,” he said. “In order to do that, you need the best facilities, the best stadium, the best supporters, and you need the best squad and the best players in the world.”

Arteta embraces the pressure of being favourites

Arsenal’s status as favourites does not concern Arteta. Instead, the Spaniard says his focus remains on the mentality of his players and their desire to continue improving. “For me, it’s when I look into the eyes of my players and I see that fire, that desire and the will to be better every single day,” Arteta said. “That’s the only thing that I care about.”

Defending the title, however, represents a significant challenge. Arsenal have not successfully retained the English top-flight championship since the 1990s. Arteta believes the current squad has the ambition and conviction to overcome that historical obstacle. “We are very conscious of what it’s going to take to deliver that,” he said. “But I feel the ambition, I feel the desire, and I feel the ability and the conviction around the team that we can do it.”

Arsenal still targeting elite additions

Chief executive Richard Garlick has also made clear that Arsenal do not intend to become complacent after their success. The club have already invested heavily in the squad, spending £143.5m on four summer signings, including the permanent arrival of Piero Hincapie and the addition of Bruno Guimaraes.

Garlick said Arsenal are now looking for players capable of making a significant difference rather than simply adding depth. “We do need to bring in players that are going to change the dial,” he explained. Arsenal missed out on Vinicius Junior after the Brazilian renewed his contract with Real Madrid, while the club remain interested in Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. Victor Osimhen has also been linked with a move.

Defensive reinforcements remain a priority

Arsenal could still strengthen before the transfer window closes, particularly in attack and defence. William Saliba’s extended absence has increased the need for another versatile defender, with Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah among the players reportedly considered. However, both deals could prove difficult, with Aston Villa valuing Konsa at around £60m and Bayer Leverkusen reluctant to sell Quansah.

In attack, Christos Tzolis has impressed during pre-season and could influence Arsenal’s plans for another left-winger. The club are also expected to consider offers for players including Gabriel Martinelli, Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Jesus as they seek greater financial sustainability. Whatever happens before the window closes, Arteta’s message is clear: winning the Premier League is not the finish line for Arsenal—it is the foundation for an even bigger ambition.