Mikel Arteta was offered the chance to become Newcastle United manager six months before taking charge of Arsenal in December 2019, according to The Telegraph.
Newcastle United’s leadership proposed a contract to Arteta, who was then working within the Manchester City coaching set-up. Despite having no previous experience as a head coach, the Spaniard was keen to accept the opportunity.
The move ultimately failed to happen because Arteta did not have former assistants around whom he could build a coaching team. The staff members he wanted to bring with him were also unable to join at that time.
Several months later, Arteta was appointed Arsenal manager. He has now been in charge of the Gunners for almost seven years.
Last season, Arsenal won the English title under Arteta.