Mikel Arteta is reportedly under increasing pressure at Arsenal, with claims from Spain suggesting he could lose his job if the club fails to secure either the Premier League or Champions League title this season.

Now in his sixth full campaign in charge, Arteta had looked on course for a historic year not long ago, with Arsenal competing across all four major competitions. However, their hopes of a quadruple have since collapsed following defeats in both domestic cups. They were beaten by Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final before suffering a shock FA Cup quarter-final exit to Southampton.

Despite those setbacks, Arsenal remain in a strong position in the league, still leading the title race they have not won since 2004. But their recent 2-1 loss at home to Bournemouth has reopened the door for City, raising fresh doubts about their ability to go all the way.

That defeat came shortly after a positive result in Europe, where Arsenal secured a 1-0 win over Sporting CP in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. The match appeared destined for a draw until a late goal from Kai Havertz handed them a crucial advantage ahead of the return leg in north London.

Following that European tie, attention will quickly shift to a high-stakes league encounter with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium—one that could prove decisive in the title race.

Amid this backdrop, questions are being raised about Arteta’s long-term future, especially if the team ends another season without silverware. Reports from Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo claim the club could part ways with the Spaniard after nearly seven years in charge should that scenario unfold.

The same reports suggest Arsenal may already have a successor in mind, identifying former captain Cesc Fabregas as a leading candidate. Fabregas enjoyed a lengthy spell at Arsenal during his playing career, winning the FA Cup under Arsene Wenger and reaching a Champions League final before moving to Barcelona.

He later returned to England with Chelsea, where he added further success before retiring in 2023 and transitioning into management. Since then, Fabregas has made a strong impression at Italian side Como, guiding them into contention for European qualification not long after their promotion to Serie A.

Como president Mirwan Suwarso recently acknowledged the growing interest in Fabregas, suggesting it would be unrealistic to expect him to remain at the club indefinitely. He indicated that opportunities at major sides such as Arsenal, Barcelona, or Chelsea could eventually come calling, given Fabregas’ rapid development as a coach.

Michael Carrick has cautioned that Leeds United will provide a stern test when they take on Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The United coach highlighted the progress made by Leeds under Daniel Farke, noting their improved tactical approach and solid defensive structure. He pointed out that the visitors have become a serious threat, with noticeable adjustments in their style of play and a strong ability to stay organised at the back.

Following an extended gap between fixtures, Carrick also spoke about the mood within his squad, describing a renewed sense of energy and positivity since the players regrouped in training this week. According to him, the team looks refreshed and eager to return to action.

He expects the upcoming match to be highly competitive, emphasizing that it will demand a strong performance from his side to get a result.

Carrick also touched on the long-standing rivalry between the two clubs, acknowledging the passion and significance the fixture holds for supporters. He отметил that these kinds of high-intensity encounters are a big part of what makes football so compelling and widely loved.

Bruno Fernandes has made it clear that both he and his family feel fully settled in Manchester, reinforcing his connection to the club amid ongoing speculation about his future.

The Manchester United captain had previously indicated in October that he would review his situation after the World Cup, but questions have continued due to his current deal, which runs until 2027 with the option of an extra year. Interest from Al-Hilal last summer only added to the uncertainty, though he ultimately turned down the move after being assured by then-manager Ruben Amorim that he remained central to the club’s long-term plans.

The 31-year-old stirred conversation again in December when he revealed that United had been open to letting him go following a £100 million bid from the Saudi side. He admitted feeling disappointed with how the situation was handled, suggesting the club failed to take a clear stance and left the decision in his hands.

Despite that episode, there is currently no strong push from either side to part ways, especially with United on course to return to the Champions League next season. Fernandes himself appears aligned with that direction, recently explaining on the Men in Blazers podcast that his family has truly settled in the North West.

He shared that living in Manchester feels natural for him, adding that his children are especially comfortable there and have fully embraced life in the city. He even joked that hearing them speak with local accents made him realize they might feel even more Mancunian than he does.

Fernandes has been married to Ana since 2015, years before his move from Sporting CP to Old Trafford, and they have two children together. Ana reportedly played a key role in his decision to remain at the club last year.

There is also a growing belief that securing Champions League football again—something United haven’t achieved since the 2023/24 season—would effectively end any lingering doubts about his future.

Looking ahead, Fernandes hinted at expected squad changes, suggesting the club will bring in reinforcements, particularly in midfield, while also exploring options on the left wing and at full-back to strengthen the team.

Interim boss Michael Carrick, who could be handed the role permanently, has already emphasized the importance of keeping the Portuguese star. He stressed that Fernandes is a vital figure for the team and not someone the club would want to lose as they build for the future.

On the pitch, Fernandes continues to deliver at a high level. He is among the leading contenders for the Premier League Player of the Season award alongside Declan Rice and William Saliba. Last season, he claimed the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award for the fourth time, putting him in the same bracket as David de Gea and Cristiano Ronaldo in that regard.

With seven matches remaining, Fernandes is also closing in on a major milestone, needing just four more assists to match the Premier League record of 20, currently held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. He also подчеркнул the importance of retaining key teammates, highlighting the need for the club to secure Harry Maguire on a new contract.