Mikel Arteta no plans to leave Arsenal despite leading the race to become next Barcelona boss

Arteta had been 14/1 to take over from Xavi, who announced he will leave the Spanish giants at the end of the season.

But reports in Spain on Sunday linked Arteta with the Barcelona job and his odds crashed down to 1/2 with several bookies.

However, Arteta, who came through the Barcelona academy and has often been linked with a return, reportedly remains committed to Arsenal, where he is contracted until 2025.

Jurgen Klopp, who is leaving Liverpool in the summer, and Jose Mourinho, who was recently sacked by Roma are the next in the bookies markets.

Xavi’s position has been under the spotlight as the LaLiga champions have fallen behind Real Madrid and Girona at the top of the table.

Following Saturday’s 5-3 home defeat by Villarreal, Xavi confirmed his departure in the post-match press conference.

“I want to announce that on June 30 I will no longer continue as the coach at Barca,” Xavi said.

“I think the situation needs to change course, and as a culer (Barca fan), I cannot allow the current situation.”

Xavi continued: “It is a decision that I have made with the president (Joan Laporta), with (vice-president) Rafa Yuste, with (sporting director) Deco.

“I think the club needs a change of dynamic. For the good of the players, I believe that they will free themselves. We play with a lot of tension.

“For the good of the board of directors, it is best that I leave.

“I will give my best. I think all of that will help the dynamic change. This is the message I would like to give. I think I am doing the right thing.

“I wouldn’t change my decision even if I won the Champions League. I will tell the players tomorrow. I’m the most responsible one, so the players will finally feel free now.”