In a sensational claim, Rio Ferdinand has stated that Mikel Arteta would leave Arsenal without hesitation to join Manchester United if offered the manager job at Old Trafford. Ferdinand, a former United center-back, has been vocal about Erik ten Hag’s future at the club, suggesting that the Dutchman is likely to be replaced as head coach in the summer.

The speculation about potential changes in the United dugout has been fueled by the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team. Following their defeat against Fulham, United currently trail Aston Villa by eight points in fourth place and are 14 points behind Arsenal, who are challenging for the Premier League title.

Arteta, who learned his trade as part of Pep Guardiola’s backroom team at Manchester City, took up his first managerial role at Arsenal in 2019. While he has guided the Gunners to a strong position in the English top-flight and appears committed to the Arsenal project, Ferdinand believes that Arteta would leave London for Manchester if given the opportunity.

Speaking on his FIVE YouTube channel, Ferdinand claimed that Arteta would “100 per cent” leave Arsenal to join Manchester United if offered the job. He suggested that if United were to part ways with Erik ten Hag or if ten Hag were to be poached by Bayern Munich, Arteta would be at the top of United’s list. Ferdinand imagines Arteta telling his Arsenal players, “It’s been emotional, but I’ve got to move, I’ve got to go.”

It’s important to note that Arteta has not previously expressed any intentions of becoming the manager of Manchester United. His current contract with Arsenal runs until next year, and he has already dismissed rumors linking him to the upcoming vacancy at Barcelona. As a player, Arteta faced United on numerous occasions during his time at Arsenal but only celebrated two victories in 17 matches. However, as a manager, he has led the Gunners to five wins and suffered just two defeats against Ferdinand’s former club.