Michail Antonio has applauded Arsenal and the club’s board on Match of the Day 2 for keeping Mikel Arteta, and giving the Spanish manager the time and money to take Arsenal forward – following their 5-0 win over Forest.
Playing 17 times in all competitions this season, Arteta has guided his side to an impressive 14 wins. They sit at the top of the Premier League table, with 31 points from a possible 36. Incredible numbers, but it could have been different.
Last season, Arsenal made a woeful start to the campaign – losing their first three games. Arteta was under immense pressure. Then, the Gunners were pipped to fourth place by Tottenham. Again, Arteta under the microscope.
But Arsenal’s board, largely forefronted by Josh Kroenke, have placed their trust in Arteta. They have given him the time and the money and now, it is beginning to show. Arsenal have a real identity in place and Antonio gave praise.
“They remind me of the Invincibles, the way they’re playing, the free-flowing football. That is one thing I’ve got to say well done to Arsenal for, the board, they stuck with Arteta and now they’re reaping the rewards,” Antonio said.
Antonio has applauded Arsenal board for keeping Arteta
Antonio is right. Fan pressure is a big factor taken into account at board level these days. Look at the power fans had when it came to the Super League – protests forced those ready to take part, to back out. Backlash can cause sackings.
There were plenty of fans suggesting Arteta was not the right man to take the Gunners back to the old glory days. Piers Morgan a high-profile example. But even he has performed a u-turn when it comes to Arteta as Arsenal manager.
Four more games until the World Cup for Arsenal. Zurich in the Europa League, a huge trip to Chelsea next week, Brighton in the Carabao Cup and then another away game in the league against Wolves.
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