Petit Predicts Arteta’s Future and Fabregas as a Potential Successor

omidbasir- Emmanuel Petit, a former footballer with deep understanding of the dynamics in North London, firmly believes that Mikel Arteta’s managerial path will eventually lead him back to his roots. According to Petit, whether Arteta’s current project with Arsenal culminates in significant trophies or disappointment, the magnetic pull of returning to the club that significantly influenced his coaching philosophy will be irresistible. He suggests that the conversation surrounding Arteta’s long-term future is evolving, indicating that the Spaniard’s potential as a manager extends well beyond the Premier League.

The bond between Arteta and Barcelona is profound. Having been nurtured in the prestigious La Masia academy, the Arsenal manager embodies the principles of the Blaugrana style. Petit asserts that a return to Barcelona is inevitable, stating, “Mikel Arteta will one day manage Barcelona; I think eventually we’ll see that.” He acknowledges the strong connections at play but emphasizes that it ultimately depends on Arteta’s aspirations regarding his managerial career, particularly whether he aims to be a one-club man.

While Arsenal supporters are eager to retain their tactical innovator for the long term, Petit believes the allure of Camp Nou will eventually overshadow any commitments to the London club. He reflected, “Does he really want to experience football in different countries? To be honest, if he leaves Arsenal, I see him more likely to go abroad than to another Premier League club. So, it would be safe to say Barcelona is his preferred next destination if he were to depart Arsenal.”

Arsenal recently faced challenges, settling for a 2-2 draw against Wolves, which allowed Manchester City to narrow the title race to just two points. This situation adds pressure as the season approaches a critical phase, especially following Arsenal’s three consecutive second-place finishes. The prospect of yet another near miss looms large, intensifying scrutiny on Arteta’s leadership.

However, Petit suggests that Arteta’s exit may not hinge on the results of the current pursuit for trophies. “To be honest, I don’t know what’s best. If he wins, he will leave. If he doesn’t win, he will leave. I think the outcome will be the same,” Petit commented. He believes that regardless of whether the Gunners secure silverware, Arteta’s long-term vision may still lead him to seek new challenges.

In the event that Arteta does venture to Catalonia, the question of who would succeed him at Arsenal becomes critical. Petit identifies another former Arsenal captain, Cesc Fabregas, who is currently making a name for himself as the head coach of Serie A side Como. Petit asserts that Fabregas is quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising young managerial talents in football. His ability to manage high-profile players and maintain dressing room discipline positions him as a leading candidate for the Arsenal role in the future.

Petit expressed admiration for Fabregas’s recent handling of team dynamics, pointing to a specific incident involving Alvaro Morata as a testament to his growing authority. “I noticed recently that Fabregas publicly addressed Morata’s misconduct, which signifies a shift in his approach to leadership. This shows personality and asserts his status as the boss, indicating that he is in it for the long haul.”

Ultimately, Petit anticipates that top clubs globally will be vying for Fabregas’s services, with Arsenal and Chelsea likely at the forefront due to his ties to both organizations. “His previous clubs will inevitably look for management changes, and top-tier clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal will undoubtedly regard him as a viable option because of the impressive job he’s doing at Como,” Petit concluded. While Arteta remains the key figure for Arsenal today, the foundations for the club’s future are already being laid by those intimately familiar with its legacy.