Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta emerges as Barcelona’s long-term managerial option

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta emerges as Barcelona’s long-term managerial option Barcelona have no immediate reason to consider replacing Hansi Flick, but the club is already believed to have one familiar name in mind for the distant future. According to a recent report from Graeme Bailey , Mikel Arteta is viewed within Barcelona as a manager they could look to bring back to the club one day. Notably, this is not a signal that Flick’s position is under threat. In fact, Barcelona are delighted with the German, who has continued to deliver silverware while beginning the 2026/27 campaign strongly . Instead, Arteta’s name appears to be part of a longer-term picture surrounding the club’s managerial succession. Flick has given Barcelona little reason for change Flick’s record makes any immediate discussion about his replacement difficult to justify. The 61-year-old guided Barcelona to a domestic treble during his first season, collecting La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Supercopa.  Barcelona see Arteta has Flick’s long-term replacement. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images) Last season brought another La Liga title and Supercopa, although Barça fell short in the Copa del Rey after losing to Atletico Madrid in the semi-final. For now, the Champions League remains the obvious missing piece. Barcelona have yet to reach a final under Flick, but that disappointment has not undermined his standing. Notably, the club demonstrated their confidence by extending Flick’s contract earlier this year , moving his deal from 2027 through to 2028. Why Arteta could become relevant one day Arteta’s credentials make the Barcelona connection understandable.  The Arsenal boss has also delivered domestic league success, guiding the Gunners to the 2025/26 Premier League title, and is said to be approaching a new contract with the club. Arsenal are keen to retain a coach they regard among the elite in world football, meaning Barcelona would face a significant challenge if they ever decided to pursue him. Barcelona are more than happy with Hansi Flick. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) Yet there is another element that keeps the possibility alive: Arteta has previously acknowledged that a return to Spain and a major job in his homeland could appeal to him at some stage. For Barcelona, that could make the Arsenal manager a natural candidate if circumstances eventually create an opening. So what happens now? For what it is worth, this story is less about Barcelona searching for Flick’s successor and more about recognising a coach who could fit the club’s identity in the future. Arteta knows Barcelona’s environment from his playing days and has since developed his managerial reputation in England, making him an intriguing option if the club ever reaches a point where a change is required. For now, though, Flick remains in control, and Barcelona’s decision to extend his contract shows where their priorities lie.