Arteta crowned Premier League Manager of the Season after title triumph

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Mikel Arteta has been named Premier League Manager of the Season for 2025/26 after guiding Arsenal to a first league title in 22 years.

The Spaniard attended the League Managers Association Awards at Grosvenor House hotel in London on Tuesday night to collect the award alongside members of his backroom staff. According to Arseblog, the 44-year-old saw off competition from Pep Guardiola, Andoni Iraola, Keith Andrews, Michael Carrick and Régis Le Bris, with the winner decided by a combination of public votes and an expert panel.

Historic achievement for Arsenal

The recognition caps off a remarkable season for Arteta, who finally delivered the Premier League title that had eluded Arsenal since the Invincibles campaign of 2003/04. The Gunners’ triumph ended Manchester City’s stranglehold on English football and validated the Spanish manager’s long-term project at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta’s tactical evolution has been evident throughout the campaign, with Arsenal displaying the defensive solidity and mental resilience that had previously been questioned. The club’s ability to grind out results in crucial moments proved decisive in their title charge.

Previous honours and missed opportunity

This latest accolade adds to Arteta’s growing collection of managerial awards. He previously won the Globe Soccer Award for Best Premier League Coach in 2023/24 and the London Football Awards Manager of the Year prize in 2023.

However, Arteta did miss out on the night’s top honour. The Sir Alex Ferguson Trophy for overall Manager of the Year went to Frank Lampard after he guided Coventry back to the Premier League, recognizing achievement across all divisions rather than just the top flight.

The award represents vindication for Arteta, who faced intense scrutiny during his early years at Arsenal. Critics questioned his tactical approach and man-management skills, particularly during difficult spells that saw the Gunners struggle for consistency.

Building for sustained success

With the title secured and individual recognition following, Arteta’s focus will now turn to establishing Arsenal as a dominant force in English football. The manager has repeatedly spoken about his ambition to build a dynasty at the Emirates Stadium, similar to what Arsène Wenger achieved during the club’s golden era.

The Premier League Manager of the Season award serves as confirmation that Arteta has successfully transformed Arsenal from top-four hopefuls into genuine title contenders. His ability to develop young talent while implementing a clear tactical identity has been central to the club’s resurgence under his leadership.