Josh Kroenke: Covid era gave Arteta space to revive Arsenal

Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke has stated that the period of behind-closed-doors football during the Covid-19 pandemic provided manager Mikel Arteta with the necessary "space" to revive the club. Kroenke describes the team as a "sleeping giant" that required patience and time to transition into its current successful state.

According to Kroenke, the absence of fan pressure during matches in that era allowed for growth and development, even through the inevitable growing pains of a young manager. Looking back, the ownership believes this environment was a hidden benefit for the club's long-term evolution.

Anybody that gets a chance to be around Mikel, you can buy into what he's selling pretty easily. I think Mikel and his staff and our players are the ones that earned those rights to have the patience in those moments by the amount of work and energy they were putting in behind the scenes. Josh Kroenke

The transition period following the departure of Arsene Wenger was particularly difficult, as the club navigated ownership changes, a new managerial era, and the exit of key executives. However, after securing their first Premier League title in 22 years, the club now feels transformed.

Kroenke also highlighted the importance of strategic recruitment, citing the signing of William Saliba as a turning point after a disappointing 2019 Europa League final. This shift in mindset helped the club move toward building a competitive squad for the future.

Looking ahead, the Gunners face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final. Kroenke emphasizes that regardless of Saturday's result, the work continues. The club aims to strengthen the squad further to stay at the top, noting that standing still in such a competitive league is not an option.