Mikel Arteta has once again been tipped to become the next Barcelona manager. Talk of the Arsenal boss returning to his boyhood club first emerged around elections time in March with Joan Laporta going up against Victor Font and Toni Freixa to succeed Josep Maria Bartomeu. Speculation continues to grow regarding the Dutchman’s future with Laporta even hinting at major changes this summer.
Joan laporta said: “A cycle has come to an end and we are working on a renewal process. From next week, you will see several decisions which must be taken. We have to work hard to build a competitive team to win league titles and Champions Leagues. When I speak of a cycle coming to an end or about renovation work, it’s because it’s what I believe must be done. We won the Copa del Rey, which we are proud of, but we were knocked out of the Champions League early and have lost La Liga incomprehensibly from my point of view.”
One of the major changes could be Koeman being replaced and reports in Spain claim only Arteta is on the shortlist to take over after Hansi Flick confirmed he will be the next Germany boss. However, Arteta has already delivered his verdict on managing Barcelona, and barring a change of heart, it seems he would reject any advances from the La Liga giants.
Mikel Arteta said: “There is always going to be speculation when there are elections in Barcelona, it’s a huge team. Obviously I was raised there as a player and there is always going to be links. But I am fully focused on the job that I have to do here, which we have a lot to do, and I am really enjoying it. Today and tomorrow I am the manager of Arsenal football club and I am really enjoying it. And I want to do much better than what we have done so far. What I can tell you is I feel privileged to manage this football club and that I’m extremely happy.”
