Don Pacifico wrote:
Tl;dr - I think the way we interpret various divisive topics can be fuelled by our perspective on things as a whole.
Don, this was a good, honest post featuring welcome empirical observations.
That Arteta has had a few personality conflicts but that he also clearly commands the respect and loyalty of most of the squad based on how they've collectively responded to those situations is one excellent point.
That our football has not been good but that it has also improved is another.
The strengthening argument against Arteta is not the one based on the results he's achieved here to date, but on where he might not be able to take us. I see him as having done enough to warrant continuing next season. Extending him until 2025 is a big call, but sacking him would be utterly stupid at this point—and I challenge anyone here to think through the effect it would have on this group of players.
After Thursday, we'll know more, but if we're in the Champions League next season, staying in the top four and closing the gap on City and Liverpool while not getting embarrassed in Europe becomes the new yardstick of success.
The question to raise about Arteta is whether he has the speed of thought, creativity and communication skills to adapt his tactics across competitions and rotate his squad, too. I don't know the answer either way.
