Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke has credited the pandemic-era behind-closed-doors matches with providing manager Mikel Arteta the time and space needed to rebuild the team. The period without fans allowed the club to implement long-term changes away from public scrutiny, facilitating a gradual transformation.

Since Kroenke Sports & Entertainment gained full control of Arsenal in 2018, the club has undergone a significant revival. Under Arteta's leadership, Arsenal has shifted from a period of stagnation to a more structured and competitive side, reestablishing itself as a consistent contender in English football.

Sources: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/evolution-sleeping-giant-arsenal-173702870.html