Arteta Inches Closer To Arsenal Move

Now, it appears that the debate over his most probable successor’s credentials to take on the job to replace his former manager is set to spark similar waves of deliberation and dispute among those around the club.

Luis Enrique was an early runner but it is believed he wanted too much money and too much control over transfers, while Massimiliano Allegri was also in the frame.

Club captain Per Mertesacker will now retire from his playing duties and assume a new role as manager of Arsenal’s academy, whilst fellow centre back Laurent Koscielny has been ruled out until December with his Achilles injury.

Adams may face a battle for the captain’s armband from Patrick Vieira, though, with the Frenchman a clear choice in the middle of the park following nine years under Wenger during which he won three Premier League titles and three FA Cups.

Henry scored 228 goals in 377 games for Arsenal, but like Arteta, he has no senior management experience.

Now behind Tottenham and Chelsea as London’s top team, the aim will be for Arteta to restore Arsenal to their former glory and implement new ideas in the capital.

Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to find Arsene Wenger’s replacement and it looks like all roads are leading to Mikel Arteta with whom they are expected to hold talks on Thursday.

“I like the feel of Mikel Arteta”, he told BBC Sport.

Arteta is keen to take up the role and Man City boss Guardiola has insisted he will not stand in his way.

Arteta played under Wenger at Arsenal and is now joint-assistant coach at Manchester City, although the 36-year-old has already received the support of Pep Guardiola, should he want to leave.

Arsenal are keen to have Wenger’s successor in place before this summer’s World Cup in Russian Federation, but even that doesn’t start for another month.

Throughout his 22-year tenure, Arsene Wenger had a huge say in nearly everything at Arsenal: from team selection and training to finances, scouting and transfer dealings.

“If he decides to move because he has this offer, this option, I will not say you don’t have to go”, Guardiola said.