Arsenal supporter Aditya Tare has backed the Gunners to win back-to-back Premier League titles after ending their long wait for the English top-flight crown. The former Mumbai Indians cricketer also opened
up about his lifelong support for the club, his rivalry with Manchester City fans and his admiration for Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard.
Speaking during the Premier League Trophy Tour in Mumbai, Tare described getting the opportunity to stand alongside the prestigious trophy as a special moment. Having supported Arsenal since childhood, he reflected on the club’s historic achievements and the emotions surrounding their long-awaited title success.
Tare recalled watching Arsenal’s iconic 2003-04 season, when the team went unbeaten throughout the Premier League campaign to earn the famous Invincibles tag. However, the years that followed brought a prolonged wait for another league title, with Arsenal repeatedly falling short while Manchester City established themselves as one of English football’s dominant teams.
According to Tare, the wait was particularly challenging because of the banter between football supporters in the Mumbai cricket dressing room. With Abhishek Nayar supporting Manchester City, Arsenal’s lack of recent league titles often left Tare on the receiving end of friendly jibes. Following Arsenal’s latest triumph, however, he believes the situation has changed.
Tare acknowledged Manchester City’s quality but backed Arsenal to win consecutive championships, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to maintain its momentum.
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Aditya Tare praises Martin Odegaard’s leadership
Tare also highlighted the importance of Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, praising the midfielder for leading through his actions. He pointed to Odegaard’s attacking contributions, defensive commitment and work rate as qualities that make him a respected leader within the squad.
Why Tare started supporting Arsenal
Tare revealed that he became an Arsenal supporter during his school days in the late 1990s, when Manchester United dominated English football. Drawn towards underdogs, he chose Arsenal while most of his friends supported United.
Arsenal’s 1997-98 Premier League triumph under Arsene Wenger strengthened his connection with the club. The performances of Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira, alongside Wenger’s attractive footballing philosophy, played a significant role in shaping his admiration for the Gunners.
Tare backs Mikel Arteta for continued success
Having experienced championship-winning campaigns with Mumbai Indians, Tare believes Arsenal have the right ingredients to build a successful era under Mikel Arteta. He hopes their latest Premier League triumph will become the foundation for further silverware and sustained success in the coming years.
With Arsenal targeting another league title, Tare remains optimistic that the club can continue to reward its supporters after years of waiting.
