Mikel Arteta has agreed to a new three-year contract to continue as Arsenal manager, as confirmed by sources. The 42-year-old's previous contract was set to expire next summer, but extension talks have successfully secured his stay at the club. Arteta expressed confidence in the negotiations earlier and the official announcement is a positive development for Arsenal as they aim to challenge for the Premier League title.
It has been reported that Arteta will receive a substantial increase on his current annual salary of £9 million. Arsenal's recent runner-up finishes to Manchester City have motivated the club to strengthen their squad, with the signings of Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino, as well as the loan acquisition of Raheem Sterling from Chelsea, all influenced by Arteta's involvement.
Arsenal faces Tottenham in the upcoming north London derby, but they are dealing with midfield issues due to injuries and suspensions. Merino is sidelined with a fractured shoulder, Declan Rice is suspended, and Martin Ødegaard is expected to miss games after sustaining an ankle injury while on international duty.
Norway's team doctor indicated that Odegaard's injury typically requires at least three weeks of recovery time, suggesting he could be out for an extended period. Arsenal's upcoming schedule includes challenging fixtures against Tottenham, Atalanta in the Champions League, and Premier League champions Manchester City, making their midfield concerns even more significant.
