Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder discussed what a post-Arsenal future looked like for Mikel Arteta.
Legendary Valencia midfielder Gaizka Mendieta said that Mikel Arteta was on the radar of Barcelona and believes that the Blaugrana would court the Basque tactician should he call time on his time at Arsenal.
Arteta came through the ranks at Barcelona, spending five years at the club across the youth team and subsidiary. Although he never played for the first team, a connection with Barcelona exists, and he has previously expressed his love for the club.
What Mendieta said about Arteta
Arteta has previously been linked with the Barcelona job during Xavi Hernandez’s stint at the club. However, Hansi Flick is in charge now, and the club are happy with the German, who led them to a domestic treble last season.
Still, Gaizka, in his praise for his fellow Basque, believes Arteta would have his pick of top clubs when he decides to leave Arsenal, specifically naming Barcelona.
“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 in an interview.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (Credit: Imago)
Mikel Arteta is reportedly interested in another Chelsea player (Credit: Imago)
“The job he’s doing at Arsenal and from now until the moment he leaves, which I’m assuming will be long-term, I’m sure there’ll be more trophies in the cabinet. Like PSG, every season Arsenal can get better, get stronger and keep getting to the latter stages.
“Big clubs will be knocking on the door, Barca included, as well as other big clubs and even national teams; he will have a lot of offers on the table.”
While Flick is currently doing an excellent job, his contract runs out in 2027. The nature of his exit at Bayern Munich suggests he is not one to stay in one spot for a lengthy duration, even when successful.
Also, the democratic nature of Barcelona’s leadership also adds a unique dynamic. With elections set for the summer, a new president—should Laporta be defeated—could decide he prefers another manager.