Arteta reveals desire to return to Spain with return to Barcelona a possibility

MIKEL ARTETA has revealed his desire to manage in Spain, sparking fears he may leave this summer ahead of Arsenal's crunch final day title battle.

The Gunners have the chance to lift their first Premier League title in 20 years if they win against Everton and Manchester City fail to beat West Ham.

Earlier this season, Arteta was outraged after reports in Spain suggested he was ready to QUIT the north London club and join Barcelona.

However, the 42-year-old has now triggered fresh concern over his future after admitting he wants to return to his homeland and manage in LaLiga.

Speaking before Sunday's season finale, Arteta said: "I have always thought that one day I will return. 

"My home draws me a lot, our way of living, of getting together, the culture – and that means I always have it in my head.

"But I am happy here [at Arsenal], happy with how they treat me, and I really enjoy my job.

"Someday I suppose it will come, I'm not going to be away for my whole life."

His comments come amid confusion over the future of Barcelona manager Xavi.

Xavi initially announced earlier this year that he would leave the club at the end of the season, before then agreeing to stay.

However, fresh reports in Catalan press now suggest he will LEAVE, after comments on Real Madrid angered club president Joan Laporta.

Arteta joined Barcelona's famous La Masia academy at the age of 15.

He never managed to break into the first team but did play in Spain for one season with Real Sociedad.

While there he was sent on loan to Everton who then brought the midfielder permanently in 2005.

He remained with the Toffees until 2011 when he then joined Arsenal.

As a player he won two FA Cups and two Community Shield's with the Gunners before retiring in 2016 when he then joined Pep Guardiola's coaching staff at Man City.

In December 2019 he left City to become manager of Arsenal.

And he will be hoping to be ahead of his compatriot when the season finishes on Sunday.