Mikel Arteta has spoken of his gratitude to the Arsenal fans and to his team and staff as they ultimately fell short of a first Premier League title in 20 years.
Despite beating Everton 2-1, thanks to a late Kai Havertz winner, Arsenal were unable to overhaul leaders Manchester City on the final day after they won 3-1 at home to West Ham United.
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To come so close and claim 27 wins in a season, more than the 2003/04 "Invincibles", who went the season unbeaten, was thanks to the support of the fans, Arteta said.
"All this is happening because you started believing, you started to be patient, you started to understand what we were trying to do," the Arsenal manager told the fans.
"All the credit has to go to the players and the staff, who are unbelievable. I think now it’s time to have a break, think, reflect, keep pushing, keep inspiring this team.
"Don’t be satisfied because we want much more than that and we’re going to get it."
'Come back stronger'
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard promised supporters that the players would return even more determined next season to try and go one better.
“We’re on a good wave, we’re closer than last year but now we have to use the break and come back even stronger and even more hungry, and push to win everything.”
“Honestly guys, I can’t thank you enough for everything you do for us. The support we have at away games, it feels like we’re playing at home, and home games are just a different level.
“We can’t thank you enough and we love you so much, so thank you.”
Havertz, who scored the winning goal against Everton, couldn't hide his disappointment and vowed that missing out on the title would only make the team better.
"Hopefully we can go again next year and give Arsenal fans what they need and what they're all here for.
"Right now I can't even think. It's just so frustrating. It's tough. I can tell them next year that we're going to be an even better team and we're going to give everything again. That's all I can say."
