Arteta 'wants to replace Ancelotti at Real Madrid' claims ex-Man Utd star

Suraj Radia

• 18 Apr 2023 19:48 BST
• 2 min read

Mikel Arteta is looking to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid manager this summer according to former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand.

Arteta has impressed during his first managerial job at Arsenal, with the Gunners top of the Premier League and the Spaniard is reportedly being considered by Real as a successor to Ancelotti, who may leave the club at the end of the season.

Speaking on his Vibe with Five show, Ferdinand urged Arsenal to resist any approach from Real for their manager but the ex-England international believes Arteta may still be keen on a switch to Madrid.

WANTED: PSG target Arteta reunion

“You’ve got to keep Arteta, first and foremost,” he said. “I heard something… I heard that Real Madrid (are interested) and when they come knocking your players will be coachless.

‘I heard Ancelotti, Don Carlo, the eyebrow, he might be getting off, and that Arteta is looking to go to Real Madrid. That’s the rumour on the streets. The streets are talking.”

Ancelotti still has one year remaining on his contract with Real and has insisted he wants to stay at the club for the rest of his life, however Brazil have approached the Italian over taking over their national team from the summer, leading to uncertainty over his future.

Arsenal planning talks with Arteta as Real outline candidates

Arteta is in his fourth season in charge at Arsenal and has earned admirers with his playstyle and approach to management, which has seen Arsenal go from outside the European places to the verge of their first Premier League title in nearly 20 years.

The ex-Manchester City coach has not given any indication that he wishes to leave Arsenal but talks over extending his contract, which is set to expire in 2025, have been put on hold until the end of the season.

RESPECT: Ancelotti rules out Real departure

Despite Real winning the Champions League last season and still capable of retaining their crown, Ancelotti has come under increasing pressure, with Barcelona set to blitz their rivals to the La Liga title.

Arteta is reportedly among the names being considered to replace Ancelotti along with the likes of Raul, currently in charge of Real Madrid Castilla and former Los Blancos midfielder Xabi Alonso.