‘Best feelings I’ve ever had:’ Arteta alone barbecuing when Arsenal won Premier League
Mikel Arteta, the head coach of Arsenal, revealed to the press that he experienced one of the most significant moments of his career while barbecuing alone in his garden. This moment coincided with Arsenal’s triumphant return to the top of the Premier League, marking the end of a 22-year wait for the coveted title.
The Gunners clinched the championship after Manchester City played to a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth, a result that secured Arsenal’s position as champions for the first time since 2004. Arteta, now in charge for six-and-a-half years, described this achievement as “one of the best feelings I have ever had.”
Despite the momentous occasion, Arteta did not watch the critical match involving his closest competitors from the Vitality Stadium. He stated that he had initially planned to be at the training ground, watching the game alongside his players and coaching staff, who were eager to share the moment together. However, he ultimately felt he could not bring the energy necessary and chose instead to retreat to his home.
“I left about 20 minutes before the game started. I couldn’t share that moment, and it was important for the boys to enjoy it together, to witness the outcome live,” he explained. In a serene setting, he took to his garden, igniting the grill and preparing food while the match unfolded in the background.
Unexpectedly, amidst the sizzling of the barbecue, his eldest son sprinted towards him with tears of joy, proclaiming, “We are Champions, daddy.” Arteta expressed how this heartfelt moment was “magical,” solidifying the memories of the day and resonating deeply within him.
Following their victory, Arsenal players gathered for their inaugural training session since being crowned Premier League champions. They currently stand four points ahead of Manchester City with only one match remaining in the domestic calendar, set to face Crystal Palace on Sunday. Furthermore, the team has a glorious opportunity to cap the season with an extraordinary double if they can triumph against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final scheduled for May 30 in Budapest.
