Covid era gave Arteta 'space' to revive Arsenal, says Kroenke

Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke has revealed that the behind-closed-doors football during the Covid-19 pandemic gave manager Mikel Arteta the 'space' needed to revive the club, which he described as a 'sleeping giant'. Kroenke believes the unique circumstances allowed Arteta to implement his vision without the usual pressures of a packed stadium.

How Covid created a unique environment for Arteta

Speaking about the club's transformation, Kroenke highlighted the pandemic's silver lining. With matches played in empty stadiums from March 2020 onwards, Arteta had the opportunity to work intensively with his squad away from the intense scrutiny of fans. Kroenke argued that this period was instrumental in laying the foundations for Arsenal's resurgence.

Arteta took over in December 2019, just months before the pandemic hit. The initial months were turbulent, but the lockdown provided a reset. The manager could focus on tactical drills, fitness regimes, and building team spirit without the distraction of matchday atmospheres. Arsenal's form improved significantly after the restart, culminating in FA Cup and Community Shield triumphs in 2020.

Kroenke's comments underline the belief that Arteta's methods were vindicated by the results. The club has since climbed the Premier League table and challenged for top honours, with a young, dynamic squad shaped largely under Arteta's guidance.

Impact on Arsenal's current trajectory

The revival has been evident in recent seasons. Arsenal have consistently finished in the top four, returning to Champions League football after a six-year absence. Their style of play has evolved into a high-pressing, possession-based system that has earned plaudits. The foundation laid during the Covid era appears to have been crucial.

Kroenke's assertion that Arsenal was a 'sleeping giant' reflects the club's potential. With a rich history and a global fanbase, the club had underperformed for years. Arteta's project, built on youth and tactical discipline, has reawakened that potential. The co-chair's remarks suggest that the board fully backs the manager's long-term vision.

  • Arteta's win rate has improved each season, from 56% in 2020/21 to 62% in 2023/24.
  • Arsenal's average possession has risen from 52% in 2019/20 to 58% in 2023/24.
  • The squad's average age has dropped to 24.5, one of the youngest in the league.

These statistics highlight the transformation. The Covid period allowed Arteta to implement changes gradually, experimenting with line-ups and tactics without the immediate pressure of results. The patience shown by the hierarchy has paid dividends.

What this means for Arsenal's future

Kroenke's comments signal continued faith in Arteta. With the club now challenging for the Premier League title and established in the Champions League, the next step is sustained success. The 'space' provided during Covid has been replaced by high expectations. Arteta must now deliver trophies.

The co-chair's praise also serves as a reminder of the club's ambitions. Arsenal are no longer content with merely competing; they aim to dominate. The foundations laid during the pandemic are seen as the bedrock for a prolonged era of success.

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