Mikel Arteta is expected to be named as Arsenal’s new manager on Friday. Arteta said his farewells to staff at Manchester City on Thursday morning.
There has been annoyance at City over Arsenal’s conduct but they will not stop Arteta, 37, succeeding Unai Emery.
A seven-figure compensation payment will be made in order for the move to be completed.
Thursday’s news conference previewing the game against Everton was cancelled.
Interim boss Freddie Ljungberg is expected to take charge of the team for the final time at Goodison Park on Saturday, with Arteta watching from the stands.
The Gunners failed to mention their interest in Arteta despite the two teams meeting at Emirates Stadium on Sunday – a game the champions won 3-0.
Gunners chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the Spaniard’s home several hours later.
The deal will go through despite unhappiness from Manchester City about Arsenal’s conduct throughout their courtship of Arteta.
City were angry that, from their point of view, Arsenal had made no formal contact about their wish to hire Arteta and cautioned that, until a seven-figure compensation fee was paid, he would not be released.
But the icy relations have proved no barrier to getting the deal done and Arteta’s return will soon be rubber-stamped. BBC Sport
