Arsenal lifted the Premier League title after Mikel Arteta steered them through a season that combined unconventional methods with ruthless squad-building. From lighting fires at training to rally the dressing room after a poor run, to an AI song naming every player that became this season's anthem, Arteta's intensity defined the campaign. Victory in Budapest seals a six-year project that began with Edu's recruitment drive and now culminates in top-flight honours.

Ten of Arsenal's top 15 Premier League appearance-makers were signed under Edu's watch before he departed. Andrea Berta arrived as sporting director last March and orchestrated the £250m transfer spend that shaped this squad. The Gunners weren't without setbacks, dropping silverware in the Carabao Cup final and suffering key defeats, but Arteta's "jump on the boat" rallying cry after the Manchester United loss seemed to ignite a resilience that carried them through.

Arteta's current deal stands at £10m per season plus £5m for Champions League qualification, but the expectation is his new contract will push closer to £20m. Bonuses triggered by this successful season will strain the wage bill alongside incoming renewal talks for Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice and others. Contract talks are already underway, with all parties keen to secure Arteta's future before next season begins.