Mikel Arteta believes Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang signed a new contract because the Gunners are as big as European giants Barcelona and Inter Milan.
The striker, who scored both goals in their 2-1 FA Cup final win over Chelsea in August, penned a three-year-deal after turning down the Spanish giants.
“I think a big reason why Auba is staying is because we have an incredible football team,” Arteta said.
“I did my part, explaining to him what we are trying to do, explaining to him how important he is going to be, what we are building. That’s it.
“The club has to take credit for that and all the people who put together this package for him to stay.
He added: “The size of our club is as big as those names (Inter and Barcelona).
“The most important thing is the football club. What we inspire to be, and what we can achieve in the future.”
But Arteta would not confirm reports the club were about to sign Iceland goalkeeper Runar Alex Runarsson from Dijon, as a replacement for Emiliano Martinez following his move to Aston Villa.
“With the departure of Emi – a big loss – we have to replace him,” he said.
“In football, the hours can become days. I cannot tell you [when]. The market is still open but things can change.”