In the era of the head coach, Arteta is a football manager in the traditional sense.
Few enjoy the level of autonomy the Spaniard does.
He has earned that power, of course, after improving Arsenal over his tenure.
Silverware, the first since an FA Cup in his first year, will serve to tighten that grip.
So it is perhaps surprising, with that attention to detail, that Arteta will soon be in the final year of his contract.
It is understood initial discussions have taken place and are described as heading in a positive direction.
Given the magnitude of what is on the horizon on the pitch, all parties are understood to agree that it isn’t the right time with the full focus on the season finale.
But sources have indicated that talks will restart in the close season. From the ownership and club’s perspective, extending Arteta’s deal is what they want – and the manager is also keen to commit. Both parties want to build on their work together.
Arsenal are currently nine points clear at the top of the Premier League and on course for back-to-back Champions League semi-finals for the first time in the club’s history.
Not winning a trophy this season would, of course, arrive as a major disappointment but it cannot be disputed that the club have taken giant strides under Arteta.
They have reached three consecutive Champions League quarter-finals and consistently challenged for the domestic title for the first time since the early days of Arsene Wenger’s reign.
You’d imagine that Arteta will be aware that he is unlikely to be afforded the level of influence he currently has at any other club in Europe.
Yet, with that said, finances will be a key factor once discussions recommence.
Arteta is understood to want assurances that the club remain committed to providing the level of backing that has kept the team competitive.
And there will also be the issue of what will be an upgraded remuneration package for Arteta.
It is understood the three-year contract Arteta signed in 2024 is worth £10m a season plus a further £5m triggered by Champions League qualification.
Only the salaries of Pep Guardiola (£20m) and Diego Simeone (£25m) are understood to eclipse Arteta’s existing contract in European football.
If Arteta does put pen to paper, how much closer he gets to Guardiola and Simeone in terms of pay will be a key question.
Josh Kroenke, the son of owner Stan and co-chair, and CEO Richard Garlick are leading the process for Arsenal and given the duo were also involved in renewing Arteta’s existing deal in 2024, the club are well positioned.
