From hunters to hunted: Arsenal ready to retain Premier League crown

Last season, Arsenal finally achieved a long-awaited Premier League title victory, ending a 22-year drought. However, the task of retaining that crown presents a significant challenge, as history shows that only three managers – Alex Ferguson, Jose Mourinho, and Pep Guardiola – have succeeded in doing so. Mikel Arteta, the current Arsenal manager, enters the 2026-27 season with the daunting task of joining that exclusive group.

At 44 years old, Arteta is the most experienced manager in the league, having spent over 350 games in charge of Arsenal. The long-serving boss has navigated through a league notorious for its lack of patience with managers, including periods of instability and change at other top clubs like Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United.

Arteta believes that their squad is capable of defending the title, as they have grown together and understand the demands of the Premier League. Their recent Champions League final appearance, where they lost to defending champions Paris St Germain on penalties, proved that their form is not just a one-off domestic success. Although a significant signing spree may not be imminent, Arsenal's acquisition of Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes for £75 million demonstrates their commitment to strengthening their team.

Arteta is confident that Guimaraes, a warrior with exceptional qualities, will elevate the team's performance. The renewed sense of purpose and ambition within the squad has transformed Arsenal's identity, moving them from being title contenders to title winners.