Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal Transformation and the Role of Fans

Mikel Arteta prioritized Arsenal’s bond with supporters since he became the club’s manager in December 2019. At 37, the former Arsenal captain noticed the disconnection between the club and its supporters. Just days before becoming Arsenal’s head coach, he observed this division from the Manchester City dugout as Pep Guardiola’s assistant. A large part of the stadium was empty during their 3-0 victory against Freddie Ljungberg’s Arsenal. This lack of support concerned him.

Reflecting on that period, Arteta stated, “That image, that feeling of the stadium, the crowd 50 per cent of the stadium empty really got into me.” He believed the situation could neither sustain a project nor lead to success. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened this, further depleting stadium attendance.

Arteta stressed rebuilding Arsenal’s connection with supporters was challenging but rewarding. For him, seeing people’s joy and the transformation was beautiful.

“When it’s harder at the beginning, then it’s better to see that transformation and that joy on the people,” he explained.

This season has seen its share of tension and anxiety. Arsenal’s three consecutive second-place finishes raised expectations, hopes, and nervousness. Games often ended closely, amplifying these emotions. For example, before March’s tight 2-1 win over Chelsea, no Premier League team had gone into the last 15 minutes more often with a one-goal lead.

Jurrien Timber commented on this pressure after that match, “You feel it, especially at the end. We stopped playing a bit, which was unnecessary.” This tension needed addressing through discussion and understanding.

A recent home win over Fulham represented progress, as mid-game crowd energy demonstrated. Thousands of fans welcomed the team before their Champions League semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid. Arteta remarked that supporters serve as Arsenal’s “12th man”, enhancing every action on the field.

He noted, “The value of that is just infinite. I think you cannot measure it and the team becomes different.” Developing this energy took time, partly due to pandemic restrictions earlier in his tenure. Stadiums fully reopened for the 2021-22 season, marking a turning point. Though the team lost their season’s first home game, they rebounded quickly, with fan support playing a crucial role.

The emergence of academy graduates like Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and new signings such as Aaron Ramsdale and Ben White improved performances. William Saliba’s return fueled further success, strengthening the club’s connection with fans. Stadium attendees applauded Saliba after an own goal, showcasing the supporters’ encouragement.

Efforts to engage fans, like meeting the team coach outside the stadium, have continued. Arteta favours this approach, though logistical challenges sometimes hinder implementation. Initiatives like these are often driven by fan groups such as REDaction Gooners.

Arteta frequently addresses fans directly in press conferences before significant matches. Highlighting unconventional kick-off times or urging them to “enjoy” moments showcases his commitment to building strong home support.

“We are very optimistic, but being very present as well.”

For the first time in 22 years, Arsenal leads a title race with two matches to play. As they prepare for their final home game, excitement surrounds the Emirates Stadium. While not a weekend finale where families could celebrate with players, tonight’s atmosphere will undoubtedly be one of the season’s best.