We all know life isn’t perfect, bills pile up, deadlines loom, relationships need work. And yet, on match day, when your team doesn’t start fast or falters for a few weeks, it’s easy to demand perfection. That’s exactly why we’re fans. We crave it. But life, and football rarely give it to us. Emotional reactions are understandable, but decision-makers have to build with reality, patience, and resources, not feelings.
That’s the backdrop for Arsenal’s 2025/26 season. Their story isn’t built on emotional highs or reckless spending. It’s built on consistency, smart planning, and purposeful moves. And the results show it.
From 8th to Three Successive Runner-Up Finishes
In just four seasons under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal went from 8th-place finishes in 2020–21 and 2021–22 to three back-to-back second-place finishes from 2022–23 through 2024–25 (Transfermarkt, Wikipedia).
A Point Collection That Sustains Ambition
- 2022–23: 84 points (2nd) (Wikipedia)
- 2023–24: 89 points (2nd) — Arsenal’s second-highest ever (Wikipedia)
- 2024–25: 74 points (2nd), despite disruptions (Wikipedia)
That adds up to 247 points in three seasons; just four points shy of Manchester City’s 251, and well ahead of Liverpool’s 233 (The Sun). The engine isn’t broken, it’s performing.
Kicking Off 2025/26 with Purpose
The new season has barely begun, and Arsenal made a statement with a win at Old Trafford. That result shortened their title odds from 5/4 to 2/1 (TalkSport). Pressure is higher than ever; legend Martin Keown’s expectation is simple: it’s time to deliver silverware. (TalkSport)
Why This Phase Really Matters
This isn’t emotional football. It’s strategic:
- Consistency over flashes
- Recruitment, not spectacle
- Culture over individual brilliance
We live imperfectly; but to build something lasting, especially in football, you must plan, be patient, and stay grounded.
Coming Up in Part 2: Recruitment as the Foundation
Next up, I’ll dive into why this summer’s transfer window wasn’t about headlines; it was about precise, purposeful reinforcements.
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