Arsenal bargain transfer reveals secret Mikel Arteta told new stars to take them to the title

Cristhian Mosquera revealed an interesting piece of information about his new club, Arsenal, during the international break. The 21-year-old joined the north London side in the summer and has already made his mark.

Despite the challenge of facing both William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, the Spaniard has embraced the challenge and has made several appearances and starts for Mikel Arteta’s side. Sitting top of the table in the Premier League, some of those points have certainly been in part because of Mosquera’s contributions.

Speaking toThe Athletic while away with the Spain under-21s squad, Mosquera spoke of the vibe in the dressing room. However, it was what he said about what had gone before him that was most intriguing.

• Arsenal behind-closed-doors friendly verdict made early after Mikel Arteta's three-player plan
• Bukayo Saka message to Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dowman speaks volumes amid Arsenal star’s admission

“We look at each other in the dressing room, we see what’s around us, and there’s an atmosphere of winners that we ourselves believe in,” he said. “We know we’re capable, so why not believe in it?

“In recent years, things weren’t going the way people wanted, the way the players wanted, the way the club wanted. But this year, people are very happy, with that optimism that this is going to be the year.”

It is these last few words that are so interesting because Arsenal have somewhat surprised many, and despite their establishment at the top end of the domestic and European competitions, it is perhaps taken for granted just where the club came from. From 11th when Arteta took over, outside of the Champions League to three runner-up finishes and a semi-final in the aforementioned elite continental competition, the Gunners are firmly among the elite – they just haven’t quite crossed the line.

When you look at how Manchester United, in particular, have remained ostracised from this level since Sir Alex Ferguson's exit, for example, or how long it took Liverpool to claim a first Premier League title despite decades of dominance in the 20th century, Arsenal’s time away from the top level seen under Arsene Wenger is shorter thanks to Arteta’s work.

That said, Mosquera makes it clear that second is not good enough in the players' minds. Even in spite of their rise, the team want more, and there is a belief and an aim to ensure that this year is indeed the year they bring home the accolades they so crave.

Arteta and the players who have welcomed Mosquera, therefore, made them very aware of the frustrations of the previous seasons. Could this be the motivation that tips them toward glory?