Above the entrance to the Emirates, the word "Champions" now shines in golden letters. This is not just a sign—it is a signal that the Gunners are no longer chasing a ghost, but are confidently striding forward, bolstered by the trophy they have already secured.
The 3:0 victory over Coventry in the first round of the Premier League 2026/27 was not merely the start of the season, but a demonstration of a new mentality. Captain Martin Ødegaard stated clearly: the team does not intend to defend the title, it intends to attack it. "Last year is over. We want to repeat and fight again," the Norwegian emphasized.
Mikel Arteta has transformed the club from a nervous pursuer into a team with a winner's character. Not long ago, fans and the players themselves radiated anxiety whenever the score remained level or problems arose. Now, the atmosphere at the stadium has become a fortress, where even debutant Christo Tiolis feels at home and immediately makes an impact on the game.
The return of key players—Ødegaard, Havertz, and Saka—in the same lineup allowed Arsenal to dominate from the first minutes. Two goals in 23 minutes is the fastest such surge since 2023. This is no accident, but a consequence of systematic work: Arteta has become the fifth manager in Premier League history to reach 150 wins in fewer than 250 matches.
The new forward Tiolis, bought for 34 million, is already showing why he is called one of the most promising. His cross led to Saka's second goal, and Ødegaard called the Greek player "lively and intelligent, someone who is difficult to stop." Arteta added: a player who has spent only a few weeks with the team is already conveying energy and precision in every touch.
The victory over the newcomer is not an outcome, but an indicator. When Arsenal loses or draws, it will become clear how deeply the championship psychology has taken root. For now, the club is demonstrating that the title is not a burden, but fuel for the next push.
This season, the Gunners will be testing not only their opponents but also their own ability to maintain aggression when the pressure increases manifold.
