Agbonlahor issues verdict on Mikel Arteta quitting Arsenal to join giants as replacement targeted
Gabby Agbonlahor has suggested Mikel Arteta should transform Arsenal into a Champions League challenger rather than quit for Real Madrid.
The former Aston Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 41-year-old has “built something special” at the Emirates Stadium since taking charge in 2019.
According to Italian outlet Tuttosport (4 April), Arsenal are aware of interest in Arteta and are planning to replace him with Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi if the Spaniard moves on.
Real Madrid have been extensively linked with Arteta with the future of veteran boss Carlo Ancelotti unclear.
The former Arsenal and Everton midfielder will have just two years remaining on his Gunners contract at the end of the season.
He could help the Londoners win their first Premier League title for 20 years – if they can hold off challengers Man City in the final games of this term.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I don’t think Arsenal can be considered Champions League contenders yet. That’s a while away.
“Real Madrid are in that bracket, every season.
“But there’s no reason why Arteta can’t make Arsenal contenders for that competition.
“The talk of him going to Madrid, I don’t see why he would want to go right now.
“He’s built something special. Even if he doesn’t win the league this season, he’ll want to do it next season. He’s got Champions League football to look forward to.
“Arsenal is his club. Dream jobs like Real Madrid, or Spain – that can wait for the future. He’s got plenty of time.”
In other news, Arsenal open talks over signing Premier League midfielder.