Following on from a breaking story reported by Sky Sports Spanish football expert Guillem Balague earlier today, Sky Sources are now reporting that Unai Emery is the new favourite to land the Arsenal job.
This news also comes with the revelation that Mikel Arteta has withdrawn himself from the running, after Arsenal failed to give him the assurances he requested regarding the level of control he would have over incoming and outgoing transfers.
It is expected that Arteta will stay with Manchester City, under the tutelage of friend Pep Guardiola, who has spoken recently of his hope that Arteta would reject the approach of Arsenal and stay with him at the newly crowned Premier League champions.
Arsenal to appoint Emery
Emery has a fairly strong track record in his last two jobs, winning the Europa League for three consecutive seasons during his tenure as Sevilla boss with the side finishing fifth twice and seventh once in La Liga during his three year spell in charge.
Moving on to take control of French juggernaut PSG, Emery was beaten to the league title by a stunning Monaco side during his first season in charge. However he led PSG back to the top of the table in dominant fashion this season, finishing 13 points ahead of second placed Monaco and scoring over 100 goals with the help of new signings Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappe – as well as completing the domestic treble.
Moving to Arsenal will certainly be a challenge for the Spaniard, and expectations will need to be tempered during his first season. It is unlikely Arsenal will force their way back into the top four, however as demonstrated during his time at Sevilla, Unai Emery knows how to find success in the Europa League – where Arsenal will once again be spending their Thursday nights next season.
It remains to be seen what will come of this new partnership between Emery and Arsenal, whether it will prove to be as successful as the Wenger years, or if it will turn out a to be a little more along the lines of David Moyes’ stint as Manchester United manager.
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