Mikel Arteta Challenges The Board Of Directors To Support Him In Recruiting New Players

JAKARTA - Mikel Arteta has challenged Arsenal officials to do what they have to do in the summer transfer market to change the club so they can win the Premier League next season.

Sunday's 1-0 win, May 18, 2025, over Newcastle United confirmed Champions League qualifiers and second place in the standings - except for dramatic changes to Manchester City in the last week - after Liverpool confirmed last month's title.

This will be the third season in a row with Arsenal finishing as runners-up and putting further pressure on clubs to act in the upcoming transfer market to strengthen the squad.

According to a leak from ESPN, Arsenal will recruit Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. They also directed shots at Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao and striker Benjamin Sesko from Red Bull Leipzig, Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting Lisbon), and Alexander Isak from Newcastle under consideration.

Arsenal Sports Director Andrea Berta has been appointed with the aim of helping Arsenal move up to their next level.

"Finish this season, go to the beach, enjoy a few days and make sure those above do what they have to do," Arteta said when asked how important the stock exchange was this summer to Sky Sports.

Arsenal will also hold contract talks with Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Miles Lewis-Skelly, and Ethan Nwaneri. Meanwhile, Thomas Partey's existing contract will expire at the end of the season.

Kieran Tierney, Raheem Sterling, Neto, Jorginho, and Oleksandr Zinchenko are all leaving.

"We have to be very smart in making decisions. Obviously, we need players because our squad is very few."

"In addition, we lost four or five players whose contracts are about to expire and whose loan period is over."

"So, we have to be sharp. Again, very disciplined in what we want to do and make sure that we are strong the following season."

"The plan is done and the time will be determined by many parties. There are many circumstances that we unfortunately cannot control."

"However, we have great people in charge of it. They will lead it with the council and the owner."

"In addition, ensuring that the people we have, they feel appreciated, feel loved."

"We make sure that they want to continue with us in the right way," Arteta said during a press conference after the match against Newcastle.

While speaking to supporters on the pitch after the game ended, Arteta surged optimism in winning the trophy next season.

"We have a dream, which is to be here today or within a week and bring big trophies to all of you."

"Unfortunately, we haven't been able to do it for many reasons. However, make sure that catching a dream doesn't run away and you don't (improve) what these football players, staff and clubs do."

"Make sure we pursue our dreams with enthusiasm and a positive attitude next season," said the Spaniard again.