Mikel Arteta could walk away from Arsenal at the end of the season, according to a sensational new report from Spain.
Days after Jurgen Klopp announced he would leave Liverpool in a matter of months, Arteta could be the latest big-name Premier League manager to quit their role.
Sport, a publication based in Catalonia, have claimed that Arteta has told those close to him that he is considering stepping away from his post early.
Arteta is tied down to a contract running until 2025, though the same outlet add his strong relationship with Arsenal’s board may allow him to break his existing deal.
Despite Barcelona boss Xavi also revealing he will leave the Nou Camp at the end of the campaign, it is thought the timing of Arteta’s rumoured decision is coincidental.
According to Sport, Barcelona president Joan Laporta holds Arteta in high regard, although no official contact over the looming vacancy has been made.
Arteta took charge at Arsenal in 2019 after leaving his role as Pep Guardiola’s trusted No 2 at Manchester City. He has gone on to win three trophies during his spell in north London – the FA Cup and the Community Shield twice.
The Spaniard also guided Arsenal to a sensational Premier League title charge last season and ensured they returned to the Champions League.
However, it is said that the work required in the high-octane role has taken its toll on the 41-year-old, who has overseen a staggering overhaul at the Emirates.
‘Maximum discretion’ is now reportedly being applied while Arteta sees how the rest of the campaign plays out for his side as they fight on two separate fronts.
Arteta progressed through the famed La Masia academy at Barcelona before struggling for opportunities and joining Rangers in a deal worth £6million in 2002.
Xavi announced he would leave Barcelona shortly after their 5-3 defeat by Villarreal.
Speaking post-match, he said: ‘Before you ask me the pertinent questions, I want to announce that as of June 30, I will not continue as Barca coach.
‘We have been talking about it with Laporta and with the sports area and, as a cule, I think that the club needs a change of dynamic. Thinking about the club and the players I think they will free themselves and will be calmer.
‘Thinking as a club man I think, “The best thing is to leave on June 30”. That said, I will give my best in the remaining four months, I think we can have a good season and I hope the dynamic changes.’
Arteta may well now be seen as a strong contender to step in to replace Xavi.
More to follow.
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