Arsenal icon Ian Wright believes that Mikel Arteta is on the verge of overtaking Arsene Wenger as the most successful manager in the club’s history. The Gunners recently clinched their first Premier League title since 2004, ending a long drought and sparking celebrations. Wright argues that if Arteta can guide the team to Champions League glory, he will eclipse Wenger’s achievements.
On Sunday, Arsenal secured the league crown after Manchester City dropped points at Bournemouth. This spared the Gunners a tense final-day showdown, though they still defeated Crystal Palace 2-1 to finish with 85 points—seven clear of City. The focus now shifts to the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, where Arsenal are considered underdogs.
Wenger’s tenure was marked by three league titles, seven FA Cups, and the legendary unbeaten 2003-04 season. However, he never won the Champions League, losing the 2006 final to Barcelona. Wright emphasized that this gap in Wenger’s legacy leaves room for Arteta to surpass him. ‘When you look at what Wenger did, it was incredible,’ Wright told Metro. ‘He kept us competing for the Champions League while dealing with stadium finances. But he couldn’t get us over the line in Europe. If Arteta wins the Champions League, he will have achieved something no one else has.’
Wright praised Arteta’s transformation of the squad since arriving as a coach from Manchester City. ‘He came in as a No. 2, changed everything, moved players in and out, and got everyone on board. Now he’s one step away from winning the Champions League—it’s unbelievable. He’ll be remembered as the best,’ Wright added.
Arsenal will parade the Premier League trophy on Monday before preparing for the Champions League final. A victory would cement Arteta’s status as the greatest manager in club history.