Mikel Arteta has joined an exclusive group of Premier League managers after taking charge of Arsenal for his 250th top-flight match.
The Spaniard reached the landmark during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park on Monday, as the defending champions continued their strong start to the season.
Arteta is now the 10th manager to oversee 250 Premier League games with a single club, joining an elite list that includes Arsene Wenger, Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola.
Arsenal’s victory was another display of the defensive solidity that characterised their title-winning campaign last season. The Gunners conceded the fewest goals in the league as they ended a 22-year wait for the Premier League title.
The travelling Arsenal supporters celebrated at the final whistle, singing about winning the league again under Arteta.
With Arsenal entering the new campaign as champions and several of their major rivals including Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United undergoing periods of transition, the Gunners are once again among the favourites to retain the title.
Hot Transfer Deals
Meanwhile, the transfer window is entering its final hours, with several major deals dominating deadline-day discussions.
Manchester City have agreed a deal worth up to £65 million for Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye. The agreement is understood to be worth £60 million initially, with a further £5 million available in add-ons.
The 26-year-old Senegal international had appeared set to join Tottenham after the London club reached an agreement with Everton on Friday.
However, the proposed deal collapsed after Tottenham forward Richarlison reportedly failed to agree personal terms with Everton, preventing the move from progressing.
Everton are understood to have made a £35 million offer for Richarlison.
Elsewhere, Manchester City have opened talks with Chelsea over a possible deal for midfielder Enzo Fernandez, while Arsenal are reportedly interested in Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez.
Everton have also agreed a £40 million fee with Monaco for striker Folarin Balogun.
Hull City, meanwhile, have agreed a £22 million package with Everton for midfielder Tim Iroegbunam.
The 23-year-old is expected to undergo a medical after receiving permission to travel to East Yorkshire. The deal includes an initial £13 million payment, with a further £9 million potentially due in add-ons.
Iroegbunam joined Everton from Aston Villa for £9 million in 2024 and could become Hull’s 13th signing of the summer.
Hull are also continuing negotiations over a possible loan deal for Chelsea midfielder Dario Essugo as clubs race to complete their final pieces before the transfer deadline.
Clubs can still complete deals after the deadline if they submit the required deal sheet by 21:00 BST.
So, deal or no deal?
