Arteta has faced criticism in some quarters over Arsenal’s style of play and tactical approach, particularly during periods when the team struggled to turn its dominance into major silverware.
However, Henry believes the manager’s record should be considered in the context of the time required to rebuild the club and establish a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level.
Speaking to Jerome Rothen on the Rothen s’enflamme podcast, Henry acknowledged that Arteta’s transformation of Arsenal did not happen overnight.
“It’s not that it annoyed me, it’s that at one point it took Mikel three-and-a-half, four years to be competitive, more or less.
“It’s not easy to create a team, but the leaders believed in him and gave him time, and he has shown he is a good coach. He brought back a title, I respect that.”
Henry’s comments highlight the patience shown by Arsenal’s hierarchy during Arteta’s tenure, with the former midfielder gradually reshaping the squad and establishing a team capable of challenging for major honours.
Arteta’s side eventually ended Arsenal’s long wait for the Premier League title, bringing the trophy back to north London after a 22-year absence. The achievement represented a significant milestone for the club and strengthened Arteta’s standing among Arsenal supporters.
The Gunners also came close to adding European glory to their domestic success, reaching the UEFA Champions League final before suffering defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
For Henry, those achievements demonstrate the progress made under Arteta and provide a counterpoint to criticism of the team’s tactical approach.
The former France international, who remains one of the most celebrated figures in Arsenal history, therefore placed greater emphasis on the manager’s overall record and the development of the team than on criticism of individual tactical decisions.
Arteta’s Arsenal are now operating under considerably greater expectations, with the manager expected to maintain the club’s challenge for domestic and European honours while continuing to develop a squad capable of competing across multiple fronts.