Arteta signs new contract with champions Arsenal

 

Mikel Arteta says this is "only the beginning" of Arsenal's success after signing a new contract with Premier League champions until 2030.

BBC Sport reported earlier this month that an agreement had been made on an improved new contract.

The Spaniard's deal was set to expire at the end of this season, with his time in charge of the Gunners now possibly stretching to a decade following his arrival in December 2019.

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone is reportedly paid over £20m per year, as was former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola - both of whom Arteta benchmarked his worth against.

The new contract includes an increase from his current salary of £10m per year plus an additional £5m in bonuses.

"This club is unique, its character and the way it makes you feel, and I have a great sense of privilege that our journey together will continue," Arteta said.

"We have already built a special bond and created memories that will last a lifetime, and what is so exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can achieve together."

The 44-year-old has won a Premier League and FA Cup in charge of Arsenal, losing the Champions League final against Paris St-Germain in May.

Arteta wants to build a dynasty - analysis

News of Arteta's new deal at Arsenal won't come as a shock.

The fact his previous deal expired at the end of the season did put a slightly greater emphasis on the speed of discussions than normal.

But Arteta has been transparent about his desire to stay at the club beyond the end of this campaign.

Dynasty building is what has driven Arteta's decision. Winning Arsenal's first Premier League title in 20 years last season is viewed as just the start.

Coming within a penalty kick of winning their first Champions League trophy came as a gut-wrenching blow - but also a huge motivation.

"We share a special bond with Mikel. We are so proud of everything we have achieved since he returned to the club in 2019," co-chairmen Stan and Josh Kroenke said.

"He has a deep understanding of Arsenal's values and carries them in his heart. He knows what this club means to everyone connected to it and is committed to building on everything we have achieved together."

With that in mind, there was never a sense Arteta was preparing to walk away from the team he has built to become one of the best in European football.

So with a deal for their manager to stay now agreed, the foundation of Arsenal's recent revitalisation into a footballing force remains in place.

Does more history beckon? Arteta is committed to finding out.