Mikel Arteta has pledged to end Arsenal’s five-year trophy drought next season after a 1–0 victory over Newcastle on Sunday sealed their place in the Champions League.
A stunning second-half strike from Declan Rice ended Arsenal’s five-match winless streak and ensured a top-five Premier League finish, but celebrations were subdued at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite another strong league campaign under Arteta, Arsenal are likely to finish as runners-up for a third consecutive season, having fallen short in their title challenge and exited in the semi-finals of both the Champions League and League Cup.
Arteta’s only silverware since taking charge remains the 2020 FA Cup, and the club’s wait for a Premier League title stretches back 21 years.
Arteta rallies the faithful
Addressing the Emirates crowd post-match, Arteta delivered a passionate message. “We had a dream; it was to be here now or in a week, bringing the big trophies to you, but we couldn’t do it due to many circumstances,” he said.
“We need to make sure the dream doesn’t get blurry. Chase it with enthusiasm and positivity next season.
We’ve started to create our own history at this stadium. There is much more to come, but it won’t be easy.
Let me tell you, this group has the hunger, the quality, and the talent. We’re going to make it happen.”
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Ødegaard: “We Will Come Back Stronger”
Captain Martin Ødegaard echoed the manager’s sentiments, acknowledging the team’s shortcomings but vowing improvement.
“We can be proud of what we’ve done, especially in the Champions League. But we haven’t been good enough in the league.
We’ll take the pain and come back stronger. We want to bring trophies back to this club.”
Newcastle’s hopes hinge on final day
Newcastle dominated large spells of the first half but lacked a cutting edge in the absence of injured top scorer Alexander Isak, who is sidelined with a groin issue.
Manager Eddie Howe is uncertain whether the Swede will be fit for their decisive final game at home against Everton on May 25.
“That’s unknown,” Howe said. “He felt pain after training. He went for a scan more as a precaution, but it became clear he wasn’t fit to play.”
Despite the loss, third-placed Newcastle remain in control of their Champions League destiny, though they are level on points with Chelsea and Aston Villa, with only goal difference keeping them ahead.
“We’re in a strong position,” Howe added. “The prize is huge, and everyone is fighting for it.
We’ve worked hard to get here, and now we need one more big effort.”
As the curtain closes on another season of near misses for Arsenal, all eyes now turn to the summer, where recruitment and resolve will determine whether next year finally ends their silverware wait.
