Mikel Arteta ‘Agrees’ to become New Arsenal Manager

Mikel Arteta ‘Agrees’ to become New Arsenal Manager

Mikel Arteta has reportedly agreed a deal in principle to take over as Arsenal manager following Arsene Wenger’s departure.

British media report that a deal has been reached with the Spaniard who emerged as favourite last week, and it is only a matter of days before an official announcement is made.

Arteta captained the Gunners during his playing days, before retiring to move into coaching where he has partnered Pep Guardiola at Manchester City since his arrival in 2016.

And the duo won the Premier League in fine fashion this season, breaking numerous records along the way.

The 36-year-old is reportedly set to make a host of changes to Arsenal’s backroom team, with a large number of coaching and medical staff to lose their jobs.

He will also be working alongside new head scout Sven Mislintat and head of football relations Sven Mislintat.

Guardiola last week gave a statement regarding his No 2, offering his support should he accept the role in north London.

And Wenger seemingly anointed Arteta as his successor yesterday by saying: “I don’t want to influence that decision – it’s important they make their choice in an objective way and I don’t want anything I say to be misconstrued.

“I know how you do these things – if I say something nice about somebody you will say I am backing him but this is not the case.

“For Arteta, does he have all the qualities to do the job? Yes.

“He was a leader and he has a good passion for the game and he knows the club well.

“He knows what is important at the club and he was captain of the club.