Former Arsenal midfielder emerges as new favourite to take over from Arsène Wenger

This story takes another turn

Yesterday, it seemed that current Juventus manager Max Allegri was the most likely candidate to take over from Arsène Wenger,  as The Times reported that Arsenal were confident of bringing in the Italian. But this story has since taken another turn, with a new favourite to fill the vacancy having emerged. Miguel Delaney of The Independent is today reporting that Allegri has opted to stay at Juventus, with Mikel Arteta becoming the frontrunner to be appointed Arsenal manager. Arteta is universally adored at Arsenal, so the appointment would unite the fanbase, to begin with at least, which will be key to creating a positive environment as they start a new chapter. Ivan Gazidis is also keen to hire someone who is more of a coach than an old fashioned manager, according to Delaney's report, making Arteta an obvious candidate. The former Arsenal midfielder has spent the past two seasons working as one of Pep Guardiola's assistant coaches at Manchester City. But while he has learned from the best, he has not yet worked as a manager. It would be a risk, as would hiring most of the candidates, but Arteta is highly rated in the world of coaching and has long been touted as a future manager. Arsène Wenger will take charge of Arsenal for the last time today, as the Gunners travel to Huddersfield Town.