Mikel Arteta is brimming with enthusiasm as he looks to extend Arsenal's recent triumph in the Premier League, insisting that the club’s ultimate aim is to become "the best club in the world." The Gunners celebrated a historic league title last season, ending a 22‑year wait, and have already taken decisive steps to reinforce the squad for a successful defence. Key signings such as Christian Tzolis and Bruno Guimarães have arrived, signalling the club’s intent to add quality across the pitch.
Speaking to Sky Sports at a Premier League launch event before Arsenal’s opening match against Coventry, Arteta reiterated that the ambition to be the world’s top club is shared by the owners and the entire organisation. "To achieve that, you need the finest facilities, a world‑class stadium, passionate supporters, and, above all, the best players on the planet," he explained. He added that the club is constantly scouting elite talent that can make a decisive impact when it matters most. "We are building a team with the players we have now and the ones we plan to bring in, all with the aim of pushing Arsenal to the very highest level." Arsenal enter the 2026/27 campaign as clear favourites to retain the league crown, a status reinforced by a comfortable 3‑0 victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield.
Despite the lofty expectations, Arteta remains grounded. "I’m comfortable being the favourites, but what matters most is the fire I see in my players’ eyes – their desire to improve every day. That’s the only thing that truly counts for me," he said.
Historically, defending a top‑flight title has been a rare feat for Arsenal; the last time they managed it was in the 1990s. Arteta is keenly aware of this challenge and sees it as a milestone worth pursuing. "We know what it will take, and we have the ambition, the desire, and the conviction within the squad to make it happen," he asserted. Club chief executive Richard Garlick echoed the same sentiment, emphasizing that Arsenal are targeting players who will "change the dial" for the team.
While a move for Vinícius Júnior fell through after the Brazilian signed a new contract with Real Madrid, Arsenal have set their sights on Atletico Madrid’s forward Julián Álvarez, among other elite prospects. Garlick explained, "In the past we signed players to reach a certain level, but now we are competing at the very top and need individuals who can elevate us further. This may include young talents from the academy combined with world‑class signings, giving us the best chance to sustain and exceed our recent success." The club has already invested £143.5 million in four summer acquisitions, including the permanent signing of defender Piero Hincapié.
When asked whether additional funds remain available, Garlick responded affirmatively, noting that Arsenal are committed to continual improvement. "We are not going to sit back and pat ourselves on the back.
The bar is now set at winning the league and reaching a Champions League final, so we will explore any opportunity that can move us forward, even though the pool of top‑quality players is smaller and the market is competitive." Looking ahead, Arsenal are still keen to strengthen both the attack and the back line. The club has opened discussions about potential deals for England internationals Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah, versatile defenders capable of playing as centre‑backs or right‑backs. However, negotiations are complex: Aston Villa reportedly demand around £60 million for Konsa, while Bayer Leverkusen are reluctant to part with Quansah.
On the offensive front, Arsenal are eager to secure a marquee forward after Vinícius Junior chose to remain at Real Madrid. Julián Álvarez remains a primary target, and there are also rumours linking the club with Victor Osimhen. The Gunners initially pursued a left‑winger at the start of the window, but with Tzolis exceeding expectations, the urgency for that specific position has lessened. Tzolis’s rapid adaptation has impressed Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta, suggesting that Arsenal may already have a satisfactory solution on the left flank.
Financial sustainability is also a priority. The club is reportedly open to offers for Gabriel Martinelli, Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Jesus, while the future of Myles Lewis‑Skelly remains uncertain.
The arrival of Guimarães has sparked speculation about possible departures, with Lewis‑Skelly viewed as a potential profit‑making sale and Martin Zubimendi possibly needing to be sold to recoup the £51 million spent on him last summer. In summary, Arsenal’s roadmap for the upcoming season blends ambition with pragmatism.
The club aims to retain its league title, deepen its squad with world‑class talent, and maintain financial health. Arteta’s vision, backed by Garlick’s strategic planning, underscores a commitment to building a team that not only wins trophies but also embodies the qualities of the world’s best football club. The journey ahead will involve careful recruitment, nurturing young prospects, and sustaining the winning mentality that has already brought Arsenal back to the summit of English football.