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Arsenal identify permanent Unai Emery replacement after sacking Spaniard
Arsenal are hoping to appoint Manchester City coach Mikel Arteta as Unai Emery’s permanent replacement.
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Arsenal chiefs are looking to hand ex-Gunner Mikel Arteta the permanent job at the Emirates after sacking Unai Emery earlier this week. The Spaniard played for the club between 2011 and 2016, before earning his coaching badges and working alongside Pep Guardiola at the Eithad.
Arsenal are considering their options with Patrick Vieira another name in contention to take over from Emery after a run of seven games without a win.
The Mirror have reported that Arteta is the main target and will be appointed should personal terms be agreed, despite having not history as a professional manager.
Guardiola has been asked his thoughts on the potential exit of his member of staff, and was solemn in his answer.
“Of course he will be manager sooner or later. Now we will see in the future what will happen,” he said.
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“I would like him honestly to stay with us as long as possible.
“Manchester City have incredible value as a person to work for the future.
“But personal life is personal life, professional desires are professional.”
When he left Arsenal back in 2016, Arteta spoke of his please at playing for the club, which hinted that he would like to return in some capacity in the future.
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He wrote: “I’ve enjoyed an amazing five years at Arsenal and it’s been an honour and a privilege to captain such a great club.
“I would like to personally thank the manager, the board, all of my team-mates and of course the fans for their fantastic support I’ve received during my time there.
“I will always remember my time at the Emirates and have gained memories during my time at the club that will stay will be forever.
“None more so than winning the FA Cups and Community Shields in consecutive seasons - the club’s first trophies in a decade.”
Arsenal take on Norwich on Sunday under the leadership of interim boss Freddie Ljungberg, who is hoping to put smiles back on the faces of fans after a difficult period.
He told Sky Sports: said: "It is a great, great honour, that is how I feel. I have this energy inside me and it is special.
"There is sadness obviously with what has happened with the club, but excitement too with what is coming up and the chance to play.
"It is just a great honour and that is what I told the players - you guys have to do the job, I can help and support, but for me, it is a great, great honour.”