Ex-Gunner questions whether Mikel Arteta is the man to win titles for Arsenal

It’s crunch time for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal as season-defining games are to be played in the next few weeks - most notably, the second leg of the Champions League semi-final against PSG where they have to overturn a 1-0 deficit. In addition, they’ve got crunch Premier League games that they need to win to ensure they get back into the competition next season. The pressure is high on the Gunners who have underwhelmed this season.

That’s an emotion that resonates with former Arsenal star Jermaine Pennant, who has questioned Mikel Arteta’s credentials in taking Arsenal beyond their current situation.

Arsenal can come back, but will they?

Since drubbing Real Madrid in the Champions League, the Gunners have earned high praise but their title credentials are still in doubt. A loss to PSG at home has amplified the voices of detractors who think that Mikel Arteta will go trophyless for the fifth season in a row.

Pennant doesn’t rule out a comeback at Parc des Princes but he is not convinced by the on-field performances.

“It’s the Champions League so anything can happen. Arsenal can come back but will they? It’s another matter.”

The former England international cites the PSG ultras as a big factor in the second leg and isn’t convinced that the Gunners will overturn their deficit.

Going away to Paris will be extremely difficult. They’ll have the home fans on their side. It’s possible but I don’t see it happening.”

Is Mikel Arteta the guy to take Arsenal over the finishing line?

The Gunners have been perennial bridesmaids for the last three seasons in the Premier League. They were beaten to the title by Man City in 2022-23 and 2023-24. With the Citizens dropping this season, many considered it the golden chance for the Gunners but they were unable to capitalise on that.

Liverpool, in their first season under Arne Slot, powered through to the title and for a lot of fans and analysts, Arsenal are nothing but pretenders.

Pennant differs in that aspect as he sees Arsenal still being in the conversation for trophies next season. His doubts are around Mikel Arteta as he puts forward the question whether he’s the right man to take them from contenders to champions.

“Arsenal are not going anywhere. The conversation should be about, can they mount the challenge to be more successful? They are going to challenge, but can they do it through the full season to win something?”

“Instead of being second or third in the league, or potentially being knocked out in the semifinal of the Champions League.”

“They will challenge, but is Mikel Arteta the guy to take them over the finish line?”

Read Pennant's thoughts on Liverpool's season and where they need to strengthen in the Summer transfer window