Mikel Arteta may consider walking away from Arsenal at the end of the season if he wins a major trophy, according to one of the club’s former legends. Although Arteta has transformed the club since taking charge in 2019, the lack of silverware under his leadership remains a glaring statistic. Arsenal have finished as runners-up for three consecutive seasons, coming agonizingly close without crossing the final line.
This season, however, feels different. Arsenal currently sit five points clear at the top of the Premier League, ahead of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, following a 2–0 victory over Brentford on Thursday (December 4, 2025). Goals from Mikel Merino and Bukayo Saka secured a vital win for Arteta’s side, who have strengthened significantly following an ambitious summer transfer window.
Despite Arsenal’s momentum and the growing belief that this could finally be their year, speculation about Arteta’s long-term future has suddenly resurfaced.
Could Arteta Leave After Winning the Title?
Arteta signed a contract extension last year, committing his future to the north London club until 2027, with an option for an additional season. On paper, his position looks secure. However, Emmanuel Petit, one of Arsenal’s former midfield icons, believes that winning a trophy might actually mark the end of Arteta’s tenure rather than a new beginning.
Speaking to Snabbare, Petit suggested that Arteta might feel the urge to pursue a fresh challenge after years of rebuilding the club.
“Mikel Arteta could be tempted to return to Spain, especially to a club he knows from his youth,” said Petit.
“Honestly, considering the work he has done, imagine if he wins something at the end of the season. He might say, ‘Okay, this is enough. After almost seven years, I’ve achieved this with Arsenal. Now it’s time to try something new.’ And I would completely understand that.”
Petit’s comments highlight a growing sentiment that Arteta may seek a new chapter once he fulfills his mission in north London.
Barcelona: A Possible Destination?
Petit went even further by naming Barcelona as a realistic landing spot for the Arsenal manager. Arteta spent part of his early career with the Catalan club between 1997 and 2002, although he never made an official first-team appearance.
“If Barcelona knock on the door, I can understand the temptation,” Petit continued.
“You think, ‘Barcelona is one of the biggest clubs in the world. I’d be back in Spain, and the lifestyle would be wonderful for my family.’ It’s a very attractive situation.”
Barcelona themselves have been linked with managerial changes, and Arteta’s tactical profile fits the club’s philosophy—adding credibility to Petit’s speculation.
Contract Talks Still on Hold
Reports from TEAMtalk suggest that Arsenal have not yet opened discussions about a new contract. However, this decision is not tied to uncertainty about Arteta’s future; instead, the club is prioritizing squad reinforcement during the ongoing season.
Both parties are understood to be relaxed about the situation, with negotiations expected to be revisited in the summer of 2026.
For now, Arteta remains fully focused on ending Arsenal’s long wait for a Premier League title. But if Emmanuel Petit’s prediction comes true, lifting that trophy might also be the moment the Spaniard decides to close an unforgettable chapter.
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