Arteta assures Arsenal fans contract talks won’t distract Gunners

Mikel Arteta told Arsenal supporters they “don’t have to worry” about his future as the Gunners boss approaches the final year of the contract he signed in 2024, insisting the remaining time is “not an issue” and that he wants to extend his stay.

The agreement runs until summer 2025, meaning Arteta is in the last 12 months of his deal. He said formal renewal talks can take place whenever the club feels the moment is right. The accompanying photo is credited to Getty Images. ImagesImage caption notes that Arteta has been in charge since 2019.

Arteta has been in charge of Arsenal since 2019. Under his guidance the club captured their first Premier League title in 22 years last season.

Upcoming fixtures and fan concerns

Arsenal face Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday at 15:00 BST. Arteta was asked in his news conference whether supporters should be uneasy about the lack of a new deal before the 2026‑27 campaign begins. The fixture will be staged at St.

“No, they don’t have to worry about any of that because I want to be here, I’m extremely happy,” Arteta said. He added he feels grateful to work with the people at the Club and that the issue will be resolved when possible. He also expressed his appreciation for the Club’s supporters.

Transfer activity and squad plans

The Gunners have already bolstered the squad, signing midfielder Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle, Greek winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge and converting Piero Hincapié’s loan from Bayern Leverkusen into a permanent deal worth a combined £143.5 million. Goalkeeper Illan Meslier arrived on a free transfer from Leeds United, while Leandro Trossard, Jakub Kiwior and Christian Norgaard have departed.

Arsenal remain interested in Aston Villa centre‑back Ezri Konsa and Bayer Leverkusen youngster Jarell Quansah as potential defensive reinforcements after injuries to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. The transfer window stays open until 1 September, giving the club time to finalise any additions.

Arteta said the club treats the contract situation like any other priority, noting that everyone feels comfortable the timing is not a problem. He stressed his will to stay and that discussions are being handled in an organic way.

Arsenal reached the Champions League final last season, losing to Paris Saint‑Germain, and Arteta has repeatedly spoken of his ambition to take the club to the next level. He explained the aim is to improve and evolve the squad, having identified areas that need strengthening.