Mikel Arteta insists Arsenal’s title aspirations must remain ‘clear’ following their runners-up position.

As the Arsenal players took a lap to show gratitude towards their supporters following a tense 1-0 win over Newcastle United, which effectively sealed the runners-up position in the Premier League, the atmosphere felt somewhat subdued.

Declan Rice’s brilliant strike in the 55th minute ensured the victory, marking only Arsenal’s second win in their last seven league matches. This result eliminated any lingering doubts about their finishing position in the top five.

Unless they suffer an unexpected defeat to last-placed Southampton next week, coupled with Manchester City racking up an extraordinary number of goals in their final two fixtures, Arsenal is set to finish second for the third consecutive season.

The last two campaigns saw them provide a tough challenge to Manchester City, particularly last year when the title race was only concluded on the final day. Arteta’s side accrued 84 and 89 points in those efforts against City, but this season saw their challenge against Liverpool fade relatively quickly, limiting their potential to 74 points.

The loss to Newcastle in the League Cup semi-finals was disappointing, but it paled in comparison to the defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semis.

Spanish manager Mikel Arteta appeared emotionally spent as he addressed the fans on the pitch after the match, though not all supporters remained to hear his message.

“We had a dream, to be here or perhaps in a week’s time bringing the major trophies to you, but we fell short for various reasons,” Arteta reflected, noting that he has only secured one FA Cup since taking over in 2019.

“We must ensure that in pursuing our dream, we remain focused, embracing positivity and enthusiasm as we look to next season.”

Under Arteta’s guidance, Arsenal has undeniably progressed, regaining their place in the Champions League, where they will embark on a third consecutive campaign in September.

However, with teams like Newcastle ending their long trophy drought this season, Crystal Palace triumphing in the FA Cup, and London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United contesting the Europa League final next week, Arteta is acutely aware that he must deliver on expectations.

“It’s time for us to start creating our own history here at this stadium, and we’ve begun that this season,” he remarked. “There’s much more to come, and it certainly won’t be easy.

“These players possess the talent. We need to recharge, finish strongly against Southampton, and then head off for a well-deserved break.”

Captain Martin Ødegaard, who assisted Rice’s goal, also emphasised the necessity for Arsenal to progress further.

“We can take pride in our achievements, especially in the Champions League, where we had an impressive run and some unforgettable experiences,” the Norwegian noted.

“However, we must acknowledge that our league performance hasn’t met the required standard. We need to learn from both our successes and setbacks, carry those lessons into next season, and strive to improve.

“Feeling the disappointment of not winning should motivate us to return stronger and bring some trophies to the club next season.”