Mikel Arteta has been crowned the Premier League Manager of the Season despite Arsenal failing to secure any silverware in the 2023/24 campaign. This decision by the League Managers’ Association (LMA) has sparked a heated debate, with some applauding Arteta’s tactical prowess and player development, while others question the validity of the award in the absence of concrete achievements.
A Break from Tradition
Historically, the Manager of the Season award is bestowed upon the manager who has led their team to the Premier League title or at least secured a Champions League qualification spot. This year, however, the script has been flipped. Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, clinched a comfortable league title victory, while Liverpool and Chelsea vied for the remaining Champions League spots. Arsenal, meanwhile, finished a commendable fourth, narrowly missing out on Champions League football but exhibiting an exhilarating brand of attacking football that has captivated fans and pundits alike.
The Arteta Effect
So, what has swayed the decision in Arteta’s favor? Firstly, there’s the undeniable progress Arsenal has made under his stewardship. Taking over a squad lacking direction and confidence, Arteta has implemented a clear playing philosophy, centered around a young, dynamic core of players such as Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and Gabriel Martinelli. This youthful energy, combined with the experience of seasoned players like Granit Xhaka and Kieran Tierney, has resulted in some of the most attractive football played in the league.
Tactical Mastermind
Secondly, Arteta’s tactical prowess deserves recognition. He has steered Arsenal away from their previous possession-centric approach, adopting a more dynamic and vertical style of play. This utilizes the pace and skill of his young attackers, allowing them to exploit space behind opposing defenses. While not without its challenges, this approach has led to some thrilling victories and a noticeable improvement in Arsenal’s attacking output.
The Trophy Debate
However, the absence of silverware remains a contentious point for many. Critics contend that trophies are the ultimate measure of success in football, and without them, Arteta’s achievements fall short. They point to managers like Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool and Thomas Tuchel at Chelsea, who, despite finishing behind Arsenal, have delivered tangible rewards for their respective clubs.
A Broader Perspective
But Arteta’s supporters argue that trophies are not the sole measure of a manager’s success. They highlight the significant improvement in Arsenal’s squad depth and overall quality. Young players have flourished under Arteta’s guidance, while experienced players have rediscovered their form. This foundation, they argue, will be crucial for future success in cup competitions and the Premier League itself.
LMA’s Stance
The LMA themselves have defended their decision, acknowledging the absence of a trophy but emphasizing the “outstanding work” done by Arteta in transforming Arsenal into a team competing for the top four. They highlight his ability to get the best out of a young squad, his innovative tactics, and his overall impact on the club’s culture.
A Landmark Decision
Ultimately, Arteta’s Manager of the Season award will be a talking point for years to come. It represents a shift in how managerial success is perceived, placing a greater emphasis on player development, tactical innovation, and long-term vision. Whether this paves the way for similar awards in the future or remains a one-off anomaly is yet to be seen. One thing is for certain: Mikel Arteta has made history, becoming the first manager to win the Premier League Manager of the Season award without a trophy in his cabinet. And whether you agree with the decision or not, there’s no denying that he has revitalized Arsenal and brought back a sense of optimism to the Emirates Stadium.
