Arteta convinced Premier League success can spur Arsenal to European triumph

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's Spanish manager, expressed his conviction that the team can claim their first European championship title this weekend, following a 22-year wait for a Premier League title that ended on May 19, 2026.

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The Gunners are set to face reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final on Saturday in Budapest, after securing their first Premier League title since 2004, thus ending a 22-year wait.

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A star-studded Paris Saint-Germain, who defeated Inter Milan 5-0 in the previous season's final, are widely regarded as favourites to lift the European Cup once again, having thrashed Inter Milan 5-0 in last season's final.

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However, Arteta believes that the confidence gained from winning the Premier League will inspire his team to upset the odds and claim the European title, citing the energy and positivity among the players and staff.

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Arteta stated, "You could sense the energy, you can sense the positivity and the confidence in the players and everybody around the club," highlighting the team's determination to succeed.

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He further emphasized, "We have an amazing opportunity to write new history in our football club, and we are convinced that we’re going to do it," showcasing his confidence in the team's abilities.

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Arteta also announced, "We will fly to Budapest on Thursday fully convinced that in a few days’ time we can be champions of Europe," demonstrating his faith in the team's potential to succeed.

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The 44-year-old Spaniard made these comments at the League Managers Association's annual awards dinner in central London on Tuesday, where he was named Premier League manager of the year.

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Upon receiving the award, Arteta expressed his gratitude, saying, "First of all, thank you so much for giving me this award," and described it as "an immense honour" to be recognized among great managers.

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Arteta reflected on his journey, stating, "It’s been a fascinating journey for a few years," and noted that the team had "been knocking on the door, we’ve been trying, we fell short a few times, and to actually win it made it so special."

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Arteta extended his thanks to several individuals, including Everton boss David Moyes, who introduced him to English football when he signed him in 2005, and praised his coaching team for their instrumental support.

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He praised his coaching team, saying, "They’ve been an inspiration, they’ve been extremely supportive with me," and credited them with making him enjoy his profession in a way he never thought possible.