Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been tasked with revitalizing the club following a tumultuous period under predecessor Unai Emery. The former midfielder, who played for the Gunners from 2011-2016, has taken the reins at the Emirates Stadium and set about implementing his vision for success. In an exclusive interview with football.london, Arteta outlined eight key steps he believes will guide Arsenal back to the top tier of English football.

Step One: A New Tactical Philosophy
Arteta emphasized the importance of adopting a new tactical philosophy that suits the current crop of players. ‘I want us to be dynamic, I want us to be quick, and I want us to be unpredictable,’ he said.

Step Two: Building a Strong Core
The Arsenal boss stressed the need for a strong core unit at the heart of the team. ‘You can’t build a house on shaky ground, you need a solid foundation to build upon,’ Arteta explained.

Step Three: Developing Young Talent
Arteta believes in giving young players an opportunity to prove themselves. ‘I want to give them the chance to play, to develop, and to grow with us,’ he said.

Step Four: Improving Defending
The Gunners’ manager recognized the need for improvement at the back. ‘We’ve got a lot of work to do in terms of defending, but I believe we have the right players to improve in that area,’ Arteta noted.

Step Five: Scoring Goals
Arteta wants his team to be prolific scorers. ‘I want us to be clinical in front of goal, to create chances, and to take them when they come our way,’ he emphasized.

Step Six: Building Team Spirit
The Arsenal boss prioritizes building a strong team spirit within the squad. ‘You can’t just have 11 players on the pitch, you need to build a family, a team that’s united and fighting for each other,’ Arteta explained.

Step Seven: Embracing Failure
Arteta believes in embracing failure as an opportunity for growth. ‘We’re going to make mistakes, we’re going to lose games, but it’s how we respond to those setbacks that will define us,’ he said.

Step Eight: Creating a Positive Atmosphere
The Gunners’ manager wants to create a positive atmosphere within the squad and around the club. ‘I want our fans to be proud of what they see on the pitch, I want them to feel like they’re part of something special,’ Arteta emphasized.

Arteta’s eight-step plan for Arsenal’s revitalization is built on a foundation of tactical evolution, player development, and team cohesion. The Spaniard’s commitment to these principles has the potential to guide the Gunners back to the top tier of English football.