Wenger endorses Arteta for managerial role

Veteran Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta has the
qualities to become a manager, according to Arsene
Wenger.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes captain Mikel Arteta has
the qualities to be a manager once his playing career comes to
an end.

Arteta is in the twilight of his career but the 33-year-old has
made five Premier League appearances this season, all off the
bench.

However, Wenger feels the veteran Spaniard can make the
transition into management when he decides to hang up his
boots.

"Mikel has a huge influence even when he is not playing,"
Wenger said. "He is super conscientious, and every morning two
hours before training he prepares and that is absolutely right.

"Just through his behaviour, his focus on getting everything
right in the team, he has a huge influence. He has great
experience and is respected throughout the squad.

"I really hope Mikel considers going into coaching. When you
manage, you want to see your players continue and see them
give their experience and knowledge back.

"You want them to give their expertise of the way we want to
play football and the way we want to behave. It would be great if
someone like Mikel went into management, so somewhere the
spirit of our game can survive through the players who have
played for us."

Wenger added: "But at the moment I must say Mikel is still here
as a football player. The first thing in life, when you sign the
contract you have to give absolutely everything to the job you
have signed for and I think he does that very well.

"He has the quality to be a manager in the future I'm sure, but at
the moment he gives his focus on the job as a player and gives
absolutely everything."