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Arsene Wenger says Mikel Arteta should take up coaching in future

Mikel Arteta has a future in coaching, according to Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
Image: Mikel Arteta has a future in coaching, according to Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger

Arsene Wenger has urged Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta to move into coaching when his playing career is over.

The 33-year-old's chances have been limited in recent months by injury and the emergence of Francis Coquelin as first-choice holding midfielder.

Wenger believes Arteta still has a role as a player but, according to the manager, his long-term future is behind the scenes.

"Mikel has a huge influence even when he is not playing," Wenger told the club website. "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.

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Francis Coquelin of Arsenal dives to head the ball clear ahead of team-mate Aaron Ramsey
Image: Arteta's playing time has, in part, been limited by the emergence of Francis Coquelin

"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."

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