"‘Do what you have to do’ – Arteta fires blunt message to Arsenal Board

Mikel Arteta has admitted he is hugely disappointed that Arsenal will finish the season without winning the Premier League or the Champions League.

Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Newcastle United thanks to a brilliant strike from midfielder Declan Rice in the 55th minute.

The Gunners will end the campaign in second place for the third consecutive season.

Despite the failure to lift any trophies, Arteta praised his team for their resilience throughout a challenging season.

Arteta hails team’s effort despite missing out

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Arsenal boss expressed how painful it was to fall short of the club’s targets again this season.

“We’re clearly very disappointed because we wanted to be here with the Premier League or the Champions League, and it’s not the case,” Arteta said. “But chasing a dream has its ups and downs.”

Arteta stressed the importance of recognising what the team has achieved this season, especially with the challenges they have faced.

“As well, make sure it does not get blurry and it does not get recognised what we’ve done,” he added.

“Any other team – and I’ve seen it with one injury to finishing eighth, fifth, 16th, 17th.

“What the team has done to sustain the levels throughout the season, with everything that happened, is incredible. I have to value what these guys have done.”

The Spaniard also noted that this season has been more demanding than the previous ones, mainly due to the expectations around the club.

“Yeah, because of the culture that we set, because of the standards and the mindset we have set at this football club, that regardless of what happens, you have to do your best, and that’s exactly what we have done,” Arteta said.

When asked about the importance of the summer transfer window, Arteta gave a light-hearted yet clear message to the club’s hierarchy.

“We go to the beach, enjoy a few days and make sure the ones upstairs do what they have to do!” he said.

Arsenal are already moving quickly in the transfer market. The club are closing in on a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Arteta will be hoping the right additions come in to help push Arsenal over the line next season, both in England and in Europe.

The post "‘Do what you have to do’ – Arteta fires blunt message to Arsenal Board first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.