After months of relentless pressure, tactical brilliance, and a title race filled with drama, Arsenal have finally been crowned Premier League champions — and one of the loudest voices praising their achievement has come from none other than Pep Guardiola.
The Manchester City manager, who has dominated English football for years, reportedly admitted that his former assistant Mikel Arteta deserves enormous credit for transforming Arsenal into the best team in the country this season.
Speaking after Arsenal officially secured the title, Guardiola was full of admiration for the work Arteta has done at the Emirates Stadium. The City boss described Arsenal’s campaign as “outstanding” and praised the mentality, consistency, and tactical maturity the Gunners showed throughout the season.
Guardiola reportedly said:
“I am very happy for Mikel. He has worked incredibly hard for this moment. Arsenal deserved the title because they were the most consistent team this season. What he has built is special.”
The comments immediately sparked huge reactions across the football world, especially because of the close relationship between Guardiola and Arteta. Before becoming Arsenal manager, Arteta spent several years working as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, helping the club dominate both domestically and in Europe.
Many football fans believe Arteta learned some of the most important tactical principles of modern football under Guardiola. But this season, the Arsenal boss proved he is no longer simply a student — he is now a champion manager in his own right.
Arsenal’s title-winning campaign was built on discipline, intensity, and a fearless attacking style. From the opening weeks of the season, the North London side looked determined to finally end their long wait for Premier League glory. Big performances against rivals, crucial away victories, and defensive consistency helped separate them from the chasing pack.
Players such as Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and William Saliba played massive roles throughout the campaign, while Arteta’s tactical decisions consistently earned praise from pundits and former players.
Guardiola also reportedly highlighted Arsenal’s mentality as the key reason they finally crossed the line this season after previous disappointments.
“Winning the Premier League is the hardest thing,” Guardiola said. “You need mentality every three days. Arsenal showed that mentality from the first game until the last.”
The respect between the two managers has become one of the most talked-about stories in football over recent years. Despite battling each other for major trophies, Guardiola and Arteta have repeatedly spoken highly of one another in interviews.
Arteta himself has often credited Guardiola for helping shape his coaching philosophy, but he has also worked hard to build his own football identity at Arsenal. This season, many believe the Spanish coach finally completed that transformation.
Football analysts have praised Arteta’s evolution, especially his ability to adapt tactically in high-pressure matches. Arsenal showed they could dominate possession, defend deep when necessary, and deliver in huge moments against elite opposition.
For Arsenal supporters, the title victory feels even sweeter because of the journey the club has taken. Just a few years ago, Arsenal were struggling to qualify for the Champions League and faced criticism over inconsistent performances. Now, they stand at the top of English football once again.
The celebrations across North London have been incredible, with supporters flooding the streets around the Emirates Stadium after the title was confirmed. Fans have praised Arteta for restoring belief, passion, and ambition to the club.
Meanwhile, Guardiola’s classy comments have also earned respect online. Many supporters applauded the Manchester City manager for showing humility and recognizing Arsenal’s achievement despite losing the title race.
Some football fans even described Guardiola’s praise as the “ultimate sign of respect,” considering the dominance City have enjoyed under him in recent years.
With the Premier League trophy now back in Arsenal’s hands, attention will quickly turn toward next season and whether Arteta’s side can build a dynasty of their own. Rivals are expected to strengthen heavily in the summer, while Manchester City will almost certainly return stronger.
But for now, Arsenal fans are simply enjoying the moment.
After years of rebuilding, heartbreak, and near misses, the Gunners are champions again — and even Pep Guardiola believes they fully earned it.