Five candidates to replace Unai Emery

Photo: Daily Mail

Arsenal have parted company with Unai Emery after 18 months in charge, following a dip in performances over the last few months. So, who could be the next man in the Emirates hot seat?

Mikel Arteta

Photo: PA

The former captain was the favourite to take over from Arsene Wenger in 2018 before the Arsenal board eventually decided on Emery.

Since retiring in 2014, Arteta has joined Manchester City’s back room staff as Pep Guardiola’s assistant. He has been massively been praised for the development of both Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling and has helped the club win two Premier League titles, Two League Cups as well as the FA Cup.

Massimiliano Allegri

Allegri was another one that was considered in 2018 when Wenger departed.

He departed Juventus at the end of last season having won five league titles in as many years. He also led the Italian Club to the Champions League finally twice. There could be question marks over his availability after he confirmed that he will take break for one year following his departure in the summer.

Nuno Espirito Santo

The Wolves manager has emerged as a contender this week. He led Wolves into the Europa League in their first season back in the Premier League.

When asked about the speculation earlier this week, he said, “you know me well and you know I’m not going to answer that.”

Whether he can be tempted to part company with high-flying Wolves midway through the seasons remains to be seen.

Mauricio Pochettino

Photo: Goal

As unlikely as it may be, former North London rivals manager Mauricio Pochettino is being considered by the Arsenal board. The Argentine led Spurs to the Champions League final last season but was relieved off his duties last week.

Arsenal face a massive challenge to lure Pochettino to the Emirates. He previously stated that he would never join the club due to his loyalty with Spurs. Could the opportunity to go straight back into another big English club be too good to turn down?

Freddie Ljungberg

Having been appointed a first team coach over the summer, Ljungberg will take charge of the team for the time being.

He won two Premier League titles and three FA cups during his time as a player with with the Club. His work with young players such as Bukayo Saka and Joe Willock during his time as the academy coach prompted Unai Emery to promote him to the first team.

Ljungberg lacks in experience but understands the values of the club and has an excellent relationship with the Arsenal fans.