Arsenal have been handed a stark warning that manager Mikel Arteta could be tempted to leave the club for a dream return to Barcelona if he secures the Premier League title this season.
Petit's Stark Warning Over Arteta's Future
Former Gunners and Barcelona midfielder Emmanuel Petit has expressed his concern that the Spanish coach might find the lure of the Camp Nou impossible to resist, especially on the back of a potential championship triumph. Petit believes that achieving the ultimate domestic success with Arsenal could prompt Arteta to seek a new challenge.
"Mikel Arteta could be tempted to come back to Spain, especially to a club he knew when he was very young," Petit told Snabbare. "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.’"
The Deep-Rooted Barcelona Connection
The potential pull for Arteta is deeply personal. He began his playing career at Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, joining at the age of 15. Although he never made a senior appearance for the Blaugrana, he played over 40 league games for the B team alongside future legends like Carles Puyol and Victor Valdes.
Petit, who also had a stint at the Catalan club, understands the emotional draw. "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,'" he added.
Contrasting Styles: Arteta's Defence vs Barca's Flair
The warning comes as Arteta's Arsenal sit top of the Premier League, built on a foundation of defensive solidity. This season, they have conceded just eight goals in 20 games across all competitions, a stark contrast to Barcelona's current vulnerabilities.
Under Hansi Flick last season, Barca conceded 39 La Liga goals. This term, they have let in 17 in their first 15 league matches, despite their attacking prowess keeping them at the summit. Petit suggested that sorting out that defence would be a key task for Arteta if he were to move.
Arteta himself recently reflected on a demanding period for his squad, which included wins over Tottenham and Bayern Munich and a draw at Chelsea, stating it provided "a huge learning" experience about managing games and player fitness.
As Arsenal continue their title charge, the speculation around their manager's future adds an intriguing subplot to what could be a historic season at the Emirates Stadium.
