Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his displeasure on Monday over reports linking him to a move to Barcelona.
Speculation about Arteta’s potential move to Barcelona surfaced on Sunday, following the announcement by Barca’s current coach, Xavi, that he would be stepping down at the end of the season, citing the need for a change at the club.
Arteta, however, seemed perturbed by these reports.
“What you read yesterday … it’s totally untrue. I’m really upset about it,” Arteta told reporters on the eve of Tuesday’s Premier League game at Nottingham Forest.
“I could not believe (it). I don’t know where it’s coming from. It’s got no source; it’s got nothing. And I think we have to be very cautious when you talk about personal things.
“There is a lot to do (at Arsenal) and we all share that ambition. We want more; we aren’t satisfied and the club wants another push to go to another level. We have everyone on board to achieve it,” he added.
Arteta expressed his optimism about having midfielder Declan Rice and defender Gabriel Magalhaes back in the squad. Both players sustained injuries during Saturday’s 5-0 home victory against Crystal Palace, in which Gabriel scored twice. Arteta is hopeful that they will recover and be available for future matches.
“We had some issues at the end of the last game so we will assess those players,” he said. “Rice is one of those players. He has done some work but he has missed some work as well. Hopefully, he will be ok. Gabriel is another one.”
Arsenal, who were top in December, have slipped to third on 43 points, five behind leaders Liverpool. Forest, who have won two of their last three league matches, are in 16th place.