Arsenal identify Cesc Fabregas to replace Mikel Arteta next season
Arsenal have identified Como manager Cesc Fabregas as their primary candidate to replace Mikel Arteta if the club fails to secure major silverware this season.
The north London outfit are reportedly drawing up contingency plans should their current manager fall short of winning either the Premier League or Champions League.
Speculation regarding a managerial shift follows a damaging 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth, which has reignited Manchester City’s title hopes.
The Gunners have already suffered domestic cup heartbreak this year, losing the Carabao Cup final to Pep Guardiola’s side in March before exiting the FA Cup against Southampton last week.
A familiar face in the dugout
Reports from Spain suggest the Arsenal hierarchy view their former captain as the perfect fit to take charge at Emirates Stadium.
The former midfielder possesses a distinct advantage over other candidates given his intimate knowledge of the club from an eight-year playing stint between 2003 and 2011.
The 38-year-old has significantly impressed the wider footballing world during his promising second season managing in Italy.
His Como side currently sit fifth in Serie A with just seven matches remaining in their campaign.
Contractual hurdles and growing pressure
Securing the Spanish coach’s services would require a compensation package, as his current contract runs until the summer of 2028.
Arteta’s own future may take a drastic turn despite holding a deal that is set to run until June 2027.
The pressure is mounting on the current regime to avoid overseeing another trophyless campaign.
Tensions surrounding the club’s recent league stumble even boiled over on Saturday when security were forced to intervene between frustrated home supporters and Bournemouth personnel.
Dortmund target Arsenal youngster
Away from the managerial situation, German giants Borussia Dortmund are showing strong interest in Arsenal forward Ethan Nwaneri.
The Bundesliga side are eager to recruit a versatile attacker and have placed the teenager on a summer shortlist alongside Aston Villa’s Jadon Sancho.
Nwaneri is currently gaining vital first-team experience on loan at French side Marseille.
The promising winger could be available for transfer after struggling for domestic opportunities following the arrivals of Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze.
