Arsenal Reportedly Eye Pep Guardiola as Potential Successor to Arsène Wenger
By BBC News
Arsenal are reportedly considering Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola as a potential successor to long-serving manager Arsène Wenger, according to reports from the London Evening Standard.
Wenger, who has been at the helm of the north London club since 1996, is under contract until the end of the 2015–2016 season. With no definitive announcement yet on whether he will extend his stay, Arsenal’s board are said to be exploring future managerial options — and Guardiola appears to be high on their shortlist.
The former Barcelona manager, currently in charge of Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, is also tied to his club until the summer of 2016, meaning his contract would expire at the same time as Wenger’s. This coincidence has reportedly encouraged Arsenal’s hierarchy to consider making contact with the Catalan coach’s camp.
Guardiola has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, and has previously expressed interest in managing in England. His tactical acumen, record of success, and emphasis on attractive football have made him one of the most sought-after managers in world football.
However, Arsenal would face stiff competition should Guardiola decide to leave Germany. Both Manchester United and Manchester City are understood to be monitoring the situation closely and could also make approaches for the 43-year-old Spaniard.
At present, no official negotiations are believed to have taken place, and Wenger himself has not ruled out continuing beyond 2016. Nonetheless, the Arsenal board is reportedly keen to plan for a smooth transition when the time comes.
Under Wenger, Arsenal have won three Premier League titles and six FA Cups, and are credited with transforming the club’s identity through a blend of technical football and youth development. But with over two decades in charge, speculation around succession planning has intensified in recent seasons.
Guardiola, meanwhile, enjoyed a trophy-laden spell at Barcelona before taking over at Bayern in 2013. His philosophy of possession-based football and tactical innovation would likely align with Arsenal’s values, making him a natural fit in the eyes of many at the Emirates.
Whether Guardiola would favour Arsenal over potentially more financially aggressive clubs like City or United remains to be seen. What is clear is that his next move, when it comes, will be closely watched — and could shape the Premier League’s managerial landscape for years to come.
