Mikel Arteta’s authority at Arsenal has once again come into focus, with fresh reports suggesting the Spaniard sits just below Josh Kroenke in the club’s internal power structure.
As Arsenal continue to evolve behind the scenes, questions around who truly drives decision-making have grown louder. The arrivals and roles of senior figures such as Richard Garlick and Andrea Berta have added layers to the club’s leadership model. However, despite that expanded structure, Arteta remains central to everything Arsenal do.
The latest insight reinforces what many have already suspected; Arsenal’s project still runs through their manager.
Arteta remains central to Arsenal’s leadership
According to journalist Sam Dean, only Josh Kroenke holds more power at Arsenal than Arteta.
That detail speaks volumes. While Garlick operates as managing director and Berta brings his expertise to recruitment, neither figure reportedly outranks Arteta in an informal sense. Instead, Arteta continues to lead from the front, with his voice carrying significant weight across footballing decisions.
Crucially, the report also highlights Arteta’s direct line to Kroenke. That relationship has become a defining part of Arsenal’s modern structure, allowing decisions to move quickly and with clarity.
It is not just a traditional head coach role, it is influence at the highest level.
Backing from ownership has shaped Arsenal’s rise
Arsenal’s steady climb back into elite contention has not happened by accident. The club has placed long-term trust in Arteta, backing him through difficult early periods and giving him the tools to build a competitive squad.
That backing has shown in recruitment, where signings have consistently aligned with Arteta’s tactical demands. It has also shaped the culture within the squad, with clear standards and identity now visible across performances.
As seen in Arsenal’s recent transfer activity, including their ongoing striker search and pursuit of elite talent, the club continues to operate with a unified vision. That approach reflects a structure where Arteta’s influence remains key to every major call.
What this means for Arsenal moving forward
Arteta’s position within the hierarchy will play a major role in shaping Arsenal’s next phase.
With a crucial summer window approaching, decisions around signings, departures, and squad balance will likely sit firmly within his control. That continuity offers Arsenal stability, something many top clubs struggle to maintain when responsibilities become fragmented.
It also ensures that recruitment aligns with the manager’s philosophy, rather than working against it.
At a time when modern football increasingly leans toward sporting director-led models, Arsenal appear to have struck a balance. Arteta leads the football vision, while the structure around him supports execution.
For now, the message remains clear, Arsenal trust Arteta, and that trust continues to define the club’s direction.
