Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta will remain at the helm of the club despite mounting pressure following the team’s Champions League elimination at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners were knocked out of the prestigious European competition after a 2-1 defeat in the second leg of the semi-finals on Wednesday night, sealing a 3-1 aggregate loss. Despite showing moments of promise, Arsenal failed to overturn the deficit, extending their trophyless run to five seasons under Arteta’s leadership.
In the high-stakes clash in Paris, goals from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi put the hosts in control before Bukayo Saka pulled one back for the North London side. Arsenal’s goalkeeper David Raya gave fans brief hope by saving a penalty from Vitinha, but it was not enough to spark a comeback.
The loss has intensified scrutiny of Arteta’s position, with fans voicing frustration over the club’s failure to secure silverware despite significant investment in the squad. Arsenal also remain locked in a tight Premier League title race, trailing leaders Manchester City by a narrow margin.
However, sources close to the club have confirmed that the Arsenal board remains firmly behind Arteta. The management reportedly views the team’s progress under his tenure as positive and is confident in his long-term vision.
“There is no change in the club’s stance. Mikel retains full support and confidence from the board,” an Arsenal spokesperson told media following the defeat.
Arteta, who took over managerial duties in December 2019, guided Arsenal to an FA Cup win in his first season but has since faced growing expectations to deliver on the domestic and European fronts. The club has spent heavily on players such as Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus in pursuit of silverware.
Speaking after the match, Arteta expressed disappointment but praised his squad’s effort.
“We’re devastated to be out at this stage. The players gave everything, and the margins at this level are incredibly fine. We will regroup and push forward,” he said during the post-match press conference.
Arsenal now turn their focus to the final stretch of the Premier League season, where they are still in contention for the title. Arteta’s immediate challenge will be to rally his side and keep their championship hopes alive in what remains of the 2024/25 campaign.
