Fabregas Tipped As Surprise Successor As Pressure Mounts On Arteta At Arsenal

Arsenal could be on the brink of a managerial shake-up, with former club captain Cesc Fàbregas emerging as a shock frontrunner to replace Mikel Arteta following a dramatic late-season collapse.

Reports from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo claim that senior figures within the north London club have identified Fàbregas, currently head coach of Serie A side Como, as the “ideal candidate” to take charge at the Emirates Stadium.

The development comes amid growing concern over Arsenal’s alarming dip in form, which has derailed what once promised to be a historic campaign. At the start of 2026, the Gunners were competing strongly on four fronts, playing expansive football and harbouring ambitions of a rare quadruple.

However, their season has since unravelled. A 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final proved to be a turning point, raising early doubts about the team’s ability to deliver in decisive moments. That setback was followed by a shock FA Cup quarter-final exit to relegation-threatened Southampton, deepening frustration among supporters.

The situation worsened last weekend when Arsenal squandered a golden opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table, slumping to a 2-1 home defeat against Bournemouth. The performance drew fierce criticism, with pundits labelling it “gutless”.

The reaction from fans was equally damning, as thousands left the Emirates Stadium before full-time, reflecting a growing sense of déjà vu and disillusionment.

Behind the scenes, the club’s hierarchy is understood to be reassessing Arteta’s position, with the prospect of a trophyless season likely to prove decisive. Should Arsenal fail to secure silverware, his tenure could come to an abrupt end.

In contrast, Fàbregas has been quietly building an impressive managerial reputation in Italy, guiding Como towards an unlikely push for European qualification. His side has earned praise for its tactical intelligence, composure and attacking clarity — qualities Arsenal have struggled to maintain in recent weeks.

Having captained Arsenal during his playing days, Fàbregas is seen as someone who understands the club’s identity and culture. Club insiders reportedly view him not only as a tactical option but also as a figure capable of reconnecting the team with its increasingly frustrated fanbase.

If a managerial change materialises, Fàbregas is believed to be more than just a contender — he is widely regarded as the leading candidate to take over and restore belief at the Emirates.