EXCLUSIVE: Mikel Arteta offers Denis Bergkamp Arsenal academy role
Steve Kay
- 10 Dec 2023 12:20 CST
- 3 min read
Exclusive
Arsenal could witness the return of club legend Dennis Bergkamp next year, FootballTransfers can reveal, as sources have informed us that Mikel Arteta has extended a personal invitation for the Dutchman to join the Arsenal Academy coaching staff.
It’s thought that the Arsenal legend is eager to rekindle his passion for coaching and will seriously consider any offer made by his former club.
Arteta believes that Bergkamp's experience and footballing philosophy would have a great impact on the club’s youth setup for years to come.
The Spaniard welcomed Jack Wilshere back to the club in a coaching capacity last year to lead their Under-18s - and now it's thought that the doors are open for Bergkamp to contribute to the development of the younger players at the Arsenal Academy.
Meanwhile, we are told that Wilshere is exploring managerial opportunities both domestically and abroad. He may be on the verge of a new chapter in his career, having engaged in talks with several clubs domestically and in the MLS.
The precise nature of Bergkamp's potential role is yet to be revealed, though sources have claimed that talks are ongoing - however, no formal offer has been forthcoming just yet.
There is the idea that Bergkamp could become a successor to Wilshere if he were to leave the club.
What did Dennis Bergkamp achieve at Arsenal?
Bergkamp left Inter Milan in 1995 and signed with Arsenal for a transfer fee estimated at £7.5 million. The Non-Flying Dutchman played 423 games for the side, netting 120 goals in total.
During his tenure in north London, Bergkamp helped Arsenal win three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and a Champions League runners-up spot.
He is considered one of the greatest attackers to have ever played for the Gunners.
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