Arsenal Manager Closer to City Than Extending Emirates Contract
Reports suggest that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is more likely to join Manchester City in 2025 than extend his contract with the Gunners. Arteta, who previously served as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at City, is seen as a prime candidate to replace Guardiola when his contract ends.
Manchester City secured their fourth consecutive Premier League title with a 3-1 victory over West Ham on the final day of the season. Although Arsenal won 2-1 against Everton, City’s victory rendered their efforts irrelevant.
Guardiola, reflecting on his future, hinted that he might leave after next season. “The reality is I am closer to leaving than staying,” he said. “We have talked with the club – my feeling is that I want to stay now. I will stay next season and during the season we will talk. But eight or nine years – we will see.”
Spanish reports indicate that Guardiola might depart in 2025, potentially to return to Barcelona. Consequently, Arteta has emerged as a strong contender to succeed him at City. Sources claim that Arteta is “closer to Manchester City than staying at Arsenal,” with City’s executives convinced he is the ideal candidate to carry on Guardiola’s legacy.
Despite Arsenal’s attempts to secure Arteta’s long-term future, the manager has shown reluctance to commit beyond 2025. The allure of a larger budget and more freedom in squad decisions at City appears to be more appealing to him.
Arteta addressed his future before Arsenal’s final game of the season against Everton. “That’s something that after the season, or whenever the right time is, we will talk and sit down,” he said. “What is important is to win now, to keep believing that we can continue to win. That’s the important thing.”
As Arsenal look to the 2024/25 season, their summer recruitment will be crucial. However, signs point to Arteta considering a new challenge at Manchester City, a move that promises greater resources and autonomy.
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