Freddie Ljungberg says Arsenal has 'a lot of things to work on'
The managers that Arsenal want are being put off from taking up the role because they fear they will not getting the backing of the board in the transfer window, a report claims. The Gunners sacked Unai Emery at the end of November and replaced the Spaniard with Freddie Ljungberg as interim boss.
But despite the club making a change, results have not drastically improved the Gunners position, however, they are still willing to be patient over their next appointment.
And while the process of finding a new manager is a priority, Arsenal director Josh Kroenke has insisted the club will be taking its time before appoint Emery’s replacement.
“It's about finding the right candidate, not the first candidate,” he said.
Two names high on the club’s shortlist was Leicester City’s boss Brendan Rodgers and Belgium manager Roberto Martinez.
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Rodgers was the Gunners number one target but following Emery’s departure he quickly committed his future to Leicester.
“Yeah, the message is clear and it has been and probably I’ll get asked again until they appoint someone, but it’s very simple. I’m very happy here,” Rodgers said when asked if he was interested in the Arsenal job.
“I made a choice nine months ago to come here for a purpose.
“The purpose was very clear in that I wanted to help this club move forward and looking to lead it forward with a group I feel has huge potential. Why would I want to move from that?”
Arsenal interim boss Freddie Ljungberg and Per Mertesacker (Image: GETTY)
As for Martinez, his immediate focus is on Euro 2020 with Belgium.
They have Denmark, Finland and Russia in their group the former Swansea City and Everton manager thinks his talented Belgium squad can win the tournament.
This leaves Arsenal with Ljungberg holding down the fort until they bring in a permanent boss, however, the Swede has also recently expressed his frustration at the board too.
Ljungberg, who has a record of one win, two draws and a loss during his time in charge, wants to bring in more staff to help him in the dugout, but he requests have been rebuffed by the club.
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“The club have said I have to wait until they make a decision, so I can’t do anything at the moment,” Ljungberg said.
“I have Per [Mertesacker] but at the same time he is academy manager.
“He is helping me with the coaching.
“The club has said when they make a decision then that’s it – or I’m leaving, obviously – and maybe then we can do something with the staff.