Arsenal board have two reasons for wanting Freddie Ljungberg as permanent boss
Arsenal could hand Freddie Ljungberg the job as next manager, as the Gunners board think he’d command a lower wage than other candidates, and the Emirates Stadium hierarchy wouldn’t have to pay compensation to any rival clubs.
Arsenal vs Norwich: Ljungberg reacts to first game as manager
Arsenal are open to the idea of giving interim manager Freddie Ljungberg the job on a permanent basis, if he can successfully turn the club’s fortunes around. Handing the Gunners legend the managerial role would also save the club money on wages and compensation.
Arsenal next manager: Ljungberg may be given permanent job for his wages and compensation (Image: GETTY Images)
Arsenal are also considering a number of other people to take over from Unai Emery.
The Spaniard was sacked last week after the Gunners went seven games in all competitions without a win.
Massimiliano Allegri is the bookies’ favourite to become Arsenal’s next manager.
The former Juventus boss is currently out of work, having left the Old Lady in the summer. But, he’ll likely demand a much higher wage packet than Ljungberg.
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Brendan Rodgers and Nuno Espirito Santo have also been tipped to take over at the Emirates.
But, both managers are currently employed by Leicester City and Wolves, respectively.
That means the Gunners would have to pay a rival Premier League club compensation to snatch either boss.
Arsenal’s managing director, Vinai Venkatesham, along with technical director Edu and head of football Raul Sanllehi, will draw up an initial shortlist in the coming weeks.
Arsenal next manager: Ljungberg drew his first game in charge of the Gunners (Image: GETTY Images)
Ljungberg, meanwhile, is honoured to be given the chance of managing his former club.
He admitted that he’s disappointed to see their dramatic fall from grace, but is proud to take over from Emery.
“It is a great, great honour. That is how I feel,” Ljungberg told Sky Sports.
“I have this energy inside me and it is special. There is sadness obviously with what has happened with the club, but excitement too with what is coming up and the chance to play.
“It is just a great honour and that is what I told the players - ‘You guys have to do the job, I can help and support’, but for me, it is a great, great honour.
“I was proud, honoured that they trusted me to do it and deliver that.
“I felt excited because I feel we have some very good football players here and it is a great club.