Mikel Arteta strongly denied reports linking him to becoming manager of Barcelona this summer. Xavi announced over the weekend he will leave the club at the end of the season.

“It’s totally untrue and I’m really upset about it,” Arteta said. “I’m in the right place with the right people. I’m immersed in a beautiful journey with this football club, the staff and the players and there is still a lot to do. I love what I do, I love every minute and I get a lot of joy. It drives you when you feel respected, loved, when you see a clear direction and ambition. That is where we are right now.”

Arteta became manager of Arsenal in 2019 and played for the club from 2011 until 2016. Arteta spent part of his childhood at La Masia.

Arteta's contract with Arsenal expires at the end of the current season. 

“I could not believe it. I don’t know where it’s coming from. I think we have to be very careful when you talk about personal things especially. When someone puts a statement about what we’ve done personally.

“Secondly because I don’t think someone deserves to hear news like that. I’ve always said completely the opposite. That’s why I feel upset.”