Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta shuts down Barcelona links; Robbie Savage makes prediction on Spaniard

A report in the Spanish news outlet Sport suggested Arteta could replace Xavi at Camp Nou, following his decision to leave the club at the end of the season.

Xavi’s bombshell announcement came after his side were beaten 5-3 by Villarreal – a result which leaves the club fourth in the table and 11 points adrift of leaders Girona.

Arteta, who came up through Barcelona’s academy as a young player, rubbished those rumours during Monday’s press conference.

The Spaniard said: “That’s totally fake news. What I read yesterday I don't know where it’s coming from. I'm really upset about it. I could not believe it. I don't know where it’s coming from.

“I think we have to be very careful when you talk about personal things especially. I'm in the right place."

When asked why he was ‘upset’ to be linked with Barcelona, Arteta added: "One is a consequence of the other. First of all I'm really cautious when I talk publicly about my personal things. When someone puts a statement about what we've done personally.

“Secondly because I don't think someone deserves to hear news like that. I've always said completely the opposite. That's why I feel upset."

Former Premier League midfielder Robbie Savage believes Arteta won't leave Arsenal over the summer.

Nevertheless, the Welshman admitted that if he was in the Spaniards position and the opportunity of a move came up, he would make the switch.

Savage told Planet Sport: “If I was in Mikel Arteta’s shoes, what would I do?

“He’s done fantastically well at Arsenal. Let’s be fair, winning the FA Cup, making them title challengers, the way he’s improved players, the dynamism he’s got in the team. He’s done a brilliant job at Arsenal.

“Barcelona, one of the biggest clubs in the world. How could you turn down Barcelona if they came calling?

“He’s done a wonderful job in the Premier League with Arsenal, won a trophy. Of course, he wants to win the Premier League, but with Man City here at the minute with Pep Guardiola, that’s going to be very tough.

“If Barcelona came calling and I was in Mikel Arteta’s shoes, personally I’d go to Barcelona.

“I don’t think it’s going to happen though. I think he’ll stay at Arsenal. But if it was me, I’d go to Barca.”

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