Mikel Arteta ‘is seen as a less risky appointment than someone like Max Allegri’ by Arsenal.
Arteta is the overwhelming favourite to become Unai Emery’s permanent replacement at the Emirates Stadium, but should heed the warnings of Freddie Ljungberg’s interim reign.
The Spaniard has met with Arsenal executives twice in recent days to discuss the possibility of taking over, with the Gunners awaiting a ‘golden handshake’ on a deal.
The situation remains uncertain, muddied by Manchester City’s likely demand for a compensation fee of at least £1m.
But Kaveh Solhekol of Sky Sports says Arsenal ‘have long been impressed’ by Arteta’s ‘impeccable coaching credentials,’ and thus will continue to pursue a move.
He adds that managerial novice Arteta ‘is seen as a less risky appointment than someone like’ six-time Serie A champion and two-time Champions League runner-up Max Allegri. The Italian ‘has no Premier League experience, doesn’t speak particularly good English (a criticism often levelled at Emery) and would make transfer demands in January.’
Arteta, however, ‘would be happy to toe the line’ and ‘leave transfer business’ to those above him, while ‘his wage demands would be more reasonable’.
In short: this fella has played in the Premier League, speaks English, wouldn’t ask for things like actual transfers and would be cheap. Get him in.