Premier League champion Mikel Arteta says Arsenal must use their title triumph as a new benchmark ahead of the 2026/27 season

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has promised a stronger and more ambitious campaign ahead after leading the Gunners to their first Premier League title in 22 years.

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Arteta made the commitment while speaking to the Arsenal App in his first media appearance since the club’s title parade in June 2026, where he reflected on the historic achievement and outlined his expectations for the new season.

Arsenal ended their long wait for a league championship by finishing seven points ahead of Manchester City, marking a major milestone in Arteta’s project since taking charge of the club.

The Spanish coach described the title celebration with players and supporters as one of the greatest moments of his football career, highlighting the emotional connection between the club and its fans.

“It was probably the best football experience I’ve ever had. It ranks at the highest level, surpassing any other trophy I’ve won or moment I’ve experienced,” Arteta said.

He explained that the triumph represented more than just a trophy, describing it as evidence of Arsenal’s transformation after years of challenges involving identity, expectations and the relationship between the club and supporters.

However, Arteta insisted that the Premier League victory should not be viewed as the final achievement of the team’s journey but as the foundation for further success.

“This must be the beginning, and this must be our benchmark,” he said.

The Arsenal manager added that maintaining excellence, discipline and ambition would be crucial as the club attempts to defend its title against strong competition from rivals including Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool, all of whom have entered the new season with changes in their coaching setups.

Arteta, who is now the only Premier League manager with a winners’ medal following Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City, said the team must continue improving every day to remain competitive at the highest level.

“My goal is to ensure that we consistently meet the standards and requirements each day to improve the next. This is what we must manage,” he stated.

He also emphasised the importance of maintaining focus throughout the long Premier League campaign, saying consistency would determine whether Arsenal could challenge again.

“Maintaining that ambition, discipline, commitment, and positive energy throughout the 11 months is our collective responsibility. If we can all accomplish this, we will find ourselves in a very strong position come May,” Arteta added.

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With Arsenal entering the new season as defending champions, expectations around the club have increased significantly. The challenge now is to prove that the title success was not a one-off achievement but the start of a sustained period of dominance.