Former Togo international Emmanuel Adebayor has expressed his happiness at seeing Arsenal and Manchester City achieve success that eluded his generation. Adebayor spent three-and-a-half seasons at Arsenal, scoring 62 goals in 142 appearances, before moving to Manchester City. Although he was unable to win the Premier League or UEFA Champions League with either club, he believes the foundations laid during his time contributed to the success enjoyed by those who followed.
Adebayor reflected on his time at both clubs, stating that he went to Arsenal to be champions but was unable to make it happen. He later joined Manchester City, where they started a project to win championships, but were also unsuccessful. Adebayor expressed his happiness for those who followed him and achieved success. Arsenal eventually ended their long wait for a Premier League title by being crowned champions in the 2025/26 season.
Adebayor praised Mikel Arteta for the transformation of Arsenal, highlighting the physical strength added to the team since the Spaniard took charge in 2019. Arteta, who previously worked under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, has gradually reshaped Arsenal into a side capable of competing for major honours. Adebayor believes that physicality has become a crucial ingredient for success in the Premier League.
The presence of physically imposing defenders such as Gabriel and William Saliba has played an important role in Arsenal's evolution, according to Adebayor. He noted that Arteta's desire for certain qualities in players, learned under Pep Guardiola, has contributed to the team's success. Adebayor's comments underline the evolution of Arsenal from the team he represented into a side that has combined technical quality, tactical discipline, and physical strength.
Adebayor emphasized that technical quality alone is not enough to sustain a title challenge in the Premier League. He believes that having players who are ready to battle and fight for the team is essential for success. This approach has clearly paid off for Arsenal, who have reclaimed the Premier League crown.
Adebayor's reflections on his time at Arsenal and Manchester City highlight the progress made by both clubs since his departure. His praise for Arteta and the current Arsenal team demonstrates his appreciation for the evolution of the club. Adebayor's comments provide insight into the changing nature of the Premier League and the qualities required for success.
The article was published on 22 September 2026, 11:41 GMT, and was written by Rabbi Adu Agyei. The transformation of Arsenal under Mikel Arteta has been widely noted, with many observers praising the team's newfound physical strength and tactical discipline. Adebayor's endorsement of Arteta's approach adds to the growing narrative around the team's success.
Key points
- Emmanuel Adebayor praises Mikel Arteta for adding physical strength to Arsenal's team.
- Adebayor believes physicality is crucial for success in the Premier League.
- Arsenal won the Premier League title in the 2025/26 season.
