Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said the club’s recent success is “only the beginning” after committing his future to the Premier League champions with a new contract running until 2030.
The Spaniard had reached an agreement on an improved deal with the Gunners some weeks ago.
Arteta’s previous contract was due to expire at the end of the current season, but his new agreement could see him spend up to a decade in charge of Arsenal after taking over in December 2019.
The 44-year-old’s new contract will reportedly increase his basic salary from £10m per year, with the potential for a further £5m in bonuses.
His new terms were benchmarked against the earnings of Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone and former Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, both of whom are reported to earn more than £20m annually.
“This club is unique, its character and the way it makes you feel, and I have a great sense of privilege that our journey together will continue,” Arteta said.
“We have already built a special bond and created memories that will last a lifetime, and what is so exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can achieve together.”
Arteta has guided Arsenal to a Premier League title and an FA Cup during his time at the club. He also led them to the Champions League final in May, where they were beaten by Paris St-Germain.
Arteta focused on building Arsenal dynasty
Arteta’s new deal comes as little surprise given his repeated desire to continue at Arsenal beyond the end of the season.
Although the expiry of his previous contract increased the urgency around negotiations, the Spaniard had been open about his intention to remain at the Emirates.
His ambitions extend beyond the success Arsenal have already achieved. Winning their first Premier League title in two decades last season was seen within the club as the beginning of a new era.
Their narrow Champions League final defeat, when they came within a penalty kick of lifting the trophy for the first time, was a painful setback but has also provided further motivation.
“We share a special bond with Mikel. We are so proud of everything we have achieved since he returned to the club in 2019,” co-chairmen Stan and Josh Kroenke said.
“He has a deep understanding of Arsenal’s values and carries them in his heart. He knows what this club means to everyone connected to it and is committed to building on everything we have achieved together.”
There had been little indication that Arteta was considering leaving the team he had developed into one of Europe’s leading sides.
With his future now secured, Arsenal can continue building on the foundations of their recent transformation under the Spaniard.
For Arteta, the next challenge is to add even more history to the club’s recent success.
