The former Arsenal midfielder was given enough encouragement that he was succeeding Arsene Wenger that the make-up of his backroom staff and contract terms were being discussed. It would have been difficult for Arteta, learning on the job as a coach who doesn't even lead sessions at Manchester City. If the former Barcelona, PSG, Everton and Arsenal playmaker is anything, he is a blank canvas but Arsenal have opted for something more fully-formed. Many around Arsenal felt Arteta was so persuasive in his interviews, he was very close to getting the job, with staff openly talking about it all last week. Emery was willing to say yes to the role being offered, and by Monday Arsenal were ready to ask the question.

Source: Irish Independent May 22, 2018 12:56 UTC