May 2025 – Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has questioned Mikel Arteta’s managerial credentials, suggesting that despite visible progress and improvements at the club, Arsenal’s lack of major trophies remains a serious concern.
“Progress Without Silverware Is Not Enough” – Henry
Thierry Henry, the club’s all-time top scorer and widely respected figure in football, voiced his concerns about Arteta’s reign, stating bluntly:
“With the quality and consistency Arsenal have shown under Arteta, the time for excuses is over. They should have at least reached a final, if not won a trophy by now.”
Arteta took over as head coach in December 2019, guiding Arsenal through a period of rebuild and significant squad overhaul. He brought in young talents, developed a possession-based playing style, and fostered a stronger team spirit — all of which have helped Arsenal become regular title contenders.
However, since lifting the FA Cup in 2020, Arsenal have failed to convert their improved form into major honors. This season (2024–25), they once again came up short in both the Premier League and Champions League, finishing second in the league and crashing out in the semi-finals of Europe’s top competition.
Henry: Arsenal’s Attack Is Predictable
In his recent appearance on CBS Sports, Henry also criticized Arsenal’s attacking patterns, saying:
“Arsenal don’t surprise you anymore. You know what they’re going to do. They rely too much on set-pieces and lack the unpredictability that makes champions dangerous.”
He emphasized that the team’s buildup play has become mechanical and too focused on patterns, rather than moments of individual brilliance and spontaneous creativity.
“Even United Are Winning Trophies”
Henry didn’t stop at tactical critique — he also pointed out the performance of Arsenal’s rivals.
“People make fun of Manchester United, but they’re winning trophies. They’ve reached multiple finals and managed to get something out of their seasons. Arsenal haven’t.”
This comparison highlights a growing frustration that while Arsenal may be playing better football and finishing higher in the league than United in some seasons, tangible success — silverware — is still missing.
Arteta Responds to Criticism
In response to Henry’s comments, Arteta acknowledged the need for trophies but defended the direction of the project:
“We’re not where we want to be yet, but the progress is undeniable. We’re building something to last, and we will keep pushing.”
He also confirmed that Arsenal are looking to strengthen the squad in the summer transfer window. Reports link the Gunners with Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyökeres, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, and even potential bids for Rodrygo or Julian Alvarez, depending on availability and price.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
There’s no doubt that Arteta has restored Arsenal’s identity, discipline, and competitiveness. But with the Premier League and Champions League slipping out of their hands yet again, the pressure is mounting.
With big investments, loyal fan support, and a core of young stars like Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Ødegaard, next season could be make-or-break for Arteta.
Thierry Henry’s comments may sting, but they reflect a sentiment shared by many: progress is great — but Arsenal fans crave trophies.
