Mikel Arteta's new contract underlines Arsenal's pursuit of Premier League dominance

It has been one of the worst-kept secrets in English football, but it was made official on Wednesday lunchtime that Mikel Arteta has signed a new contract to remain Arsenal manager. The club describe this as a "long-term contract", confirming later on that it is until 2030.

Speaking in the club's official statement, the 44 year old expressed his delight at this news becoming official.

"It's a privilege to commit my future to the club and to continue to work with exceptional people who want the best for Arsenal. This club is unique, its character and the way it makes you feel, and I have a great sense of privilege that our journey together will continue.

We have already built a special bond and created memories that will last a lifetime, and what is so exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can achieve together. This is such a proud moment for me and my family. I feel the love and respect from our fantastic supporters, and they have mine, and ours, in return."
Mikel Arteta

Chairman Josh Kroenke outlined the "special bond with Mikel" that both he and his father Stan possess, adding that they are all "determined to create many more in the years ahead". On a similar note, CEO Richard Garlick added that "we want to create a winning era together with Mikel". So, could that be possible?

Well, right now, Arsenal are aiming to win back-to-back English top division titles since 1935, winning four out of five to start the '30s. Herbert Chapman won the first two of those titles, before tragically dying of pneumonia in January 1934, with Joe Shaw and then George Allison leading the Gunners to the latter two titles.

Thus, if Arteta's team are able to retain the Premier League this season, he would become the first manager in Arsenal's entire history to go back-to-back, something neither George Graham nor Arsène Wenger ever achieved.

Well, the Gunners have to be well-placed to do just that. Obviously, they are not top of the table right now, but current leaders Manchester City may not be there for very long, we shall see. Meantime, none of Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool nor Tottenham, generous to include bottom of the table Spurs on this list, appear well-placed to challenge.

Thus, as Arsenal aim to win back-to-back titles for the first time in 92 years, and dream of a first-ever Champions League triumph, Arteta putting pen to paper has to be great news for every Gooner worldwide.

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