Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta has disclosed the precise moment he became convinced that his team would secure the Premier League championship last season.
He said this certainty emerged following his squad’s remarkable triumph against West Ham United.
Leandro Trossard put the Gunners in the lead at London Stadium on May 10, only for Callum Wilson to score a stunning equaliser during injury time.
The goal was initially awarded by on-field referee Chris Kavanagh, and West Ham appeared to have obtained a draw, which would have carried significant consequences for both the title race and the relegation battle.
Following an extended review, VAR official Darren England intervened and overturned the goal due to a foul committed against Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya by Pablo Felipe.
Now, approximately five months later, Arteta disclosed that he had absolute confidence Arsenal would win their first Premier League title in 22 years after beating West Ham.
He told the Athletic, “This is football elevated to its best version, when a journey, a moment that can change so many people’s lives, goes one way or the other. You just pray because you know if it goes the wrong side, probably it’s gone again.
“That evening when I returned home, I declared, ‘We shall be champions. This is our moment. This occurrence has transpired for a purpose, and we shall accomplish it’.”
Regarding the championship victory, he further stated, “It transcended mere trophy acquisition. It constituted a moment that we shall cherish throughout our entire existence.”