Former Spain midfielder Gaizka Mendieta believes Mikel Arteta success at Arsenal since taking charge in 2019 will make him one of the most sought-after managers in world football once he decides to leave the Emirates Stadium. Mendieta even suggested that Barcelona could be a natural destination for Arteta in the future.
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MENDIETA BACKS ARTETA FOR TOP JOBS
Mendieta, who enjoyed a celebrated career with Barcelona, Valencia and Middlesbrough, said he doesn’t expect Arteta to move on soon but is confident the Arsenal boss will have no shortage of opportunities when the time comes.
“Whenever Mikel Arteta’s time at Arsenal is up and he’s looking for new experiences, big clubs will be knocking on his door,” Mendieta told OLBG. “I’m sure there’ll be more trophies in the cabinet before he leaves. Clubs like PSG or Barcelona, even national teams, will be lining up for him.”
ARTETA RISE AT ARSENAL
Since taking over in 2019, Arteta has transformed Arsenal into consistent Premier League title contenders, finishing second in each of the last three seasons their best run since Arsène Wenger’s era. Despite strong competition from the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City, Arsenal continue their hunt for a first league title since 2004. Arteta’s only major trophy so far remains the FA Cup from his debut season in charge.
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A RETURN TO HIS ROOTS?
Arteta’s ties to Barcelona run deep. The Basque-born coach joined La Masia at 15, where he played alongside Xavi, Andrés Iniesta and Víctor Valdés before making 42 appearances for Barcelona B. His coaching journey began under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City in 2016, and returning to Catalonia one day could represent a symbolic homecoming.
With Hansi Flick’s contract at Barcelona running until 2027, the club may eventually look for a successor and Mendieta believes Arteta profile fits perfectly with the Barca philosophy.
FABREGAS TIPPED FOR FUTURE PREMIER LEAGUE ROLE
Mendieta also spoke highly of another former Arsenal captain, Cesc Fabregas, who is making waves in management at Como. The ex-midfielder believes it’s only a matter of time before Fabregas returns to the Premier League.
“I’m sure Premier League clubs have approached him,” Mendieta said. “He’s intelligent, adaptable, and understands how to build a team. Arsenal or Chelsea could both suit him, but right now he’s happy leading the project at Como.”