Mikel Arteta has acknowledged that his long-term future as Arsenal's manager hinges on the club winning silverware. As he approaches his sixth anniversary in charge on December 20, 2025, the Spaniard is aware that tangible success is crucial to securing his position beyond his current contract, which has 18 months remaining.

Arteta was appointed on December 20, 2019, and his tenure has been marked by significant progress, although the FA Cup win in 2020 remains his only major trophy. Despite consistent top-four finishes in the Premier League over the past three seasons, the ultimate test for Arteta is converting potential into actual trophies.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal's game against Everton, the same opponent he faced in his first week as manager six years ago, Arteta emphasized the importance of the present. He believes that his continued presence at the club depends on what happens in the coming months. He stated that a manager must earn the right to stay through their actions, communication, and the level of support they receive from players, ownership, and the board.

Arteta highlighted the dedication and desire of his players as a key factor in his role, emphasizing the importance of winning football matches. He acknowledged that his survival in the environment depends on the team's success.

Since taking over from Unai Emery, Arteta has overseen a cultural reset at Arsenal, raising standards and rebuilding the squad with a clear identity. While recognizing the progress made, Arteta knows that sustained success is measured by trophies.

Arteta signed a new three-year contract in September 2024, which keeps him at the club until at least 2027. The new contract made him one of the highest-paid managers in the Premier League.

Despite the long-term contract, there may be no great hurry to begin negotiations around March, with a view to having an agreement in place before the manager enters the final year of his contract. It may be in the interests of both Arsenal and Arteta to wait until the end of the season, when it will be clear whether the manager has delivered the success the club craves.

Celebrating his sixth anniversary, Arteta believes Arsenal is now in a position to win major trophies, with the team currently vying for the Premier League title and competing in the Champions League. He is the second-longest-serving manager in the Premier League, behind Pep Guardiola.