2 – Mikel Arteta
Remember him? Arteta’s inability to stay fit will have played a huge part in Arsenal’s decision not to extend his contract. The Spaniard almost left the club in the summer but he felt he had more to give and signed a one-year extension. So far he is yet to prove he had any more to give and may consider retiring altogether at the end of the season.
Arsenal are reportedly considering offering Arteta a coaching role upon completion of his playing contract. If he doesn’t feel like he can continue playing, he may well be interested in a role of that nature.
From what we’ve seen this season I think his playing days are over altogether. He has looked way off the pace and often picked up injuries when on the pitch for more than 30 minutes. Mohammed Elneny’s looks like he will be Arteta’s replacement in the squad.