From being the target of jokes to becoming one of England’s most important clubs: how Arsenal broke the curse of “being a team that almost became champions”
When Mikel Arteta took over Arsenal in December 2019, the London club was going through one of the most difficult periods in its recent history. The absence of the Champions League, staff turmoil, and years without any significant trophies made Arsenal a target of ridicule. It seemed like a time of great achievements was finally behind us.
The first season was marked by a FA Cup win, but that excitement quickly gave way to reality. For over five years, Arsenal failed to achieve any major trophies. Fans’ patience ran out, and the club became known as a “permanent second-tier team.” The team often missed out on titles, only fueling skepticism among fans.
But this season has become a turning point. Arteta not only established a well-coordinated tactical system, but he also completely changed the team’s mentality. When the calendar brought back the usual challenges, Arsenal didn’t flinch. For the first time in two decades, the club returned to the Premier League, breaking the curse of being “almost champions.”
This title isn’t just a statistic. It’s a historic milestone that separates this team from the legendary 2004 season of the “Invincibles.” The Spanish coach proved that systematic work, strict standards, and strategic patience can turn a team from being a target of ridicule into a dominant force in English football.
Now, there’s only one final step left before Arsenal can claim a trophy. If a few years ago, such prospects seemed unrealistic, today Arsenal is ready to compete for a trophy. The journey from being a target of jokes to reaching the pinnacle is almost complete. The last, most important step remains.