Mikel Arteta ‘agrees new contract' as head coach of Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has committed his future to Arsenal by agreeing a new contract with the Premier League champions. The extension of Arteta's tenure as head coach – which had been up for renewal at the end of the season – was seen as something of a formality. It's understood the terms of a new deal have now been struck. It is not anticipated that confirmation of the 44-year-old's stay will be announced imminently. Arteta began his Arsenal reign in 2019 and has overseen their rise back to the forefront of English football, with the Gunners last season securing their first league title in 22 years. Audio not ready yet. Arteta's side had started their title defence with a perfect record until their shock 3-0 defeat at Brighton prior to the international break. Asked about his next contract ahead of the clash with the Seagulls, Arteta said: 'I think we are all very much aligned; whenever the time is right, we'll get that done. There is nothing to be concerned about.' As well as ending Arsenal's wait for a league title, Arteta also steered Arsenal to their first Champions League final in two decades. Read more Fit-again Isak cannot fix Liverpool — Six things we learnt from Premier League's first five games Arsenal lost to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties but in the days leading up to the final in Budapest, Arsenal co-owner Josh Kroenke said: 'Keeping Mikel around is [an] utmost priority and I think the good news for Arsenal fans worldwide is he's enjoying the project, he's enjoying being here and from his time as a player all the way up until now, he's an Arsenal man through and through.' Following their surprise defeat at the Amex Stadium on Saturday, Arsenal will next be in action with a home match against Leeds on October 10.