Thierry Henry has high expectations for Arsenal this season. The Gunners legend has also voiced those expectations. The 47-year-old Frenchman hopes that the progress under Mikel Arteta will finally be rewarded in the coming season.
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Henry appeared on the popular show Men in Blazers, where he was naturally asked about Arsenal’s current trajectory, their progress under Mikel Arteta, and, of course, his predictions for the coming season.
The Arsenal legend, who remains one of the most iconic players in the club’s history, did not hold back in his praise for Arteta, underlining the significant strides the club has made since the Spanish manager took the reins.
“He’s doing an excellent job, truly great work,” Henry stated emphatically when asked about Arteta's impact. “The football we’ve seen under him is exciting, dynamic, and courageous something that brings back memories of when Arsenal used to dominate not just matches, but the style of football itself. Did I ever think he should be sacked? No, of course not. Every project needs time, patience, and backing, and Arteta has shown he’s the right man to lead this team forward. Do I think we’ll be champions this year? Yes.”
Henry’s confident declaration was delivered with the same authority that defined his playing days. He didn’t hesitate or show any signs of doubt, instead reinforcing his belief that Arsenal are finally on the verge of reclaiming their place at the very top of English football. But while his conviction was clear, Henry also acknowledged the apprehension that still lingers among some sections of the fanbase.
“I completely understand the concerns,” he admitted. “We’ve been so close in the last few seasons always finishing second or just short of the title and when that happens repeatedly, it’s only natural that people question whether we have what it takes to go all the way. But what I see now is a team that has matured. The players have learned from their experiences, the squad has depth, and the mentality is shifting from ‘can we compete?’ to ‘we are here to win.’ That’s an essential change.”
Henry, who famously formed an unforgettable partnership with Dennis Bergkamp during Arsenal’s invincible era, believes that understanding how to win is just as critical as the talent on the pitch. “To be champions, it’s not just about playing well. You have to know how to win, especially in the tough moments. It’s about navigating through adversity, grinding out results when the odds are against you. This team is starting to show signs that they’ve embraced that challenge. Hopefully, this is the season they can finally get over the line and deliver the title that the fans have been dreaming of.”
The optimism around Arsenal is fueled not only by their performances but also by the club’s activity in the transfer market. Determined to address key weaknesses and add further quality, the Gunners have already made significant moves this summer. The arrival of Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad is seen as a statement signing, bringing in a composed and technically gifted midfielder who can dictate play and add balance. Noni Madueke, a dynamic and skillful winger from Chelsea, adds more unpredictability and flair to the attack. Christian Nørgaard, the reliable Danish midfielder from Brentford, brings tenacity and experience, qualities Arsenal have often lacked in big games. Meanwhile, Kepa Arrizabalaga joins to provide more competition and stability between the posts.
These additions are not just random purchases they reflect a clear strategy by Arteta and sporting director Edu to build a squad that can not only compete domestically but also in Europe. The belief is that with these reinforcements, combined with the core of young talents like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and William Saliba, Arsenal have a squad capable of going toe to toe with any team in the world.
The anticipation is further heightened by the fixture list. Arsenal’s Premier League campaign begins on August 17 with a blockbuster clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford a match that will immediately test the Gunners’ readiness for the title challenge ahead. Historically, encounters between these two giants have been fiercely contested, and this opening fixture is likely to set the tone for the season.
Most bookmakers currently have Arsenal as the second favorite for the Premier League title, just behind Liverpool, now managed by Dutchman Arne Slot. Slot’s arrival at Anfield has brought renewed energy to Liverpool, but many pundits believe that Arsenal are better placed to dethrone Manchester City, who have dominated English football under Pep Guardiola.
For Henry, it’s not just about winning the league; it’s about restoring Arsenal to the elite of European football. “Winning the Premier League would be massive, but I also want to see Arsenal competing deep into the Champions League. That’s where this club belongs among the very best, challenging for the biggest prizes. With Arteta at the helm, I truly believe that moment is coming.”
Henry’s words will undoubtedly resonate with Arsenal fans worldwide. Coming from a figure who knows what it takes to win, both as a player and as a leader, his confidence might just be the spark that fans need to believe that, after years of waiting, glory days could soon return to the Emirates Stadium.
Updated: 12:06, 19 Jul 2025
