Mikel Arteta could be tempted to depart Arsenal on a triumphant note if his side secures silverware this season, according to former Gunners star Emmanuel Petit. The Spanish manager has less than two years remaining on his current contract at the Emirates Stadium.
Ending the Trophy Drought
Arsenal have not won a major trophy since their FA Cup victory in 2020, but the current campaign offers a strong chance to end that barren run. Arteta's team sits atop the Premier League table and is also leading its Champions League group, with many pundits considering them genuine contenders for both prestigious competitions.
Furthermore, the club remains active in the Carabao Cup, having reached the quarter-final stage, and will begin its FA Cup journey in January. This multi-front challenge presents a clear opportunity to finally add to the club's honours list.
Petit's Bold Prediction
Emmanuel Petit, who achieved the Premier League and FA Cup double with Arsenal in the 1997-98 season, has now speculated that a successful season could prompt Arteta to seek a new challenge. Speaking to betting outlet Snabbare, Petit suggested a return to Spain, and specifically to Barcelona, could be on the cards.
'Mikel Arteta could be tempted to come back to Spain, especially to a club he knew when he was very young,' Petit stated. He developed his argument by saying, 'Honestly, with the work he's doing, can you imagine if he wins something at the end of the season? He would probably say, "Okay, fair enough. For me, after almost seven years, I've done it with Arsenal. I think it's time for me to see something else". I can understand that.'
The Barcelona Lure
The connection to Barcelona is a personal one for Arteta, who spent time in the Catalan giants' famed La Masia youth academy as a young player. Petit believes the pull of his former club, combined with lifestyle factors, could prove decisive.
'But, in a way, I can also understand that if Barcelona knocks at your door, you will think, "Okay, listen, Barcelona is one of the greatest clubs in the world. I'll be back in Spain, and the lifestyle is good for my family".'
This speculation adds an intriguing layer to what is already a pivotal season for Arsenal. While the immediate focus remains on maintaining their strong position in multiple competitions, the long-term future of their highly-regarded manager has now become a topic of open discussion.
