Arteta has confirmed he has held talks with Arsene Wenger but refuses to say in what capacity
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has revealed that he has held talks with legendary manager over a return to the club, reports the Evening Standard.
Wenger was in charge of the Gunners for 22 years before stepping down in 2018 and now currently works for FIFA as the chief of global football development, a role in which is he is campaigning for changes to the international match calendar – including a biennial World Cup.
As per the Standard, the pair spoke at the premiere of Wenger’s new film: ‘Arsene Wenger: Invincible’ which took place in early November.
Arteta, who played and captained Arsenal under Wenger, confirmed he had spoken to Wenger about a return to the club.
He said: “It was incredibly pleasant to see him and chat to him – and hopefully we can bring him close.
“Because I think he will have a great time just seeing the environment that he can create around him [and] around this place. Because of the respect and admiration that everybody at the club has for what he’s done – and as well for what he represents as a person in this club.
‘There has been communication, and I saw him and talked to him when we went to see the film.”
Despite admitting that he has had conversations with Wenger, the current Arsenal boss refused to disclose what capacity he hopes Wenger will come back in.
“I cannot tell you now, but what I can say is that I would like him to be much closer personally to me,” said Arteta.
“Because I think it would be a great help – and it would be a great help for the club. Things take time, and I think he has to dictate those timings.
“What I can say is from my side, and I can talk I think on behalf of everybody, that we would be delighted to have him much closer.”
Arsenal have been in good form of late and will look to move into the top four with a win against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Related links:
- ‘The perception of time has changed’: Wenger justifies biennial World Cup plans
- Virgil Van Dijk meets with Arsene Wenger to outline biennial World Cup danger
- Arsene Wenger claims he could have gone to Manchester United
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