When Arsenal sacked Unai Emery, they had several managers in mind to speak to about their vacant job role, but one surprising name has come out as one of their targets before Mikel Arteta agreed to be their coach. Emery had struggled to control the dressing room and change the culture at the club after taking over from Arsene Wenger, who had been their manager for at least two decades.It was a tough task for the Spaniard, even though he managed to reach the final of the Europa League in his first season at the club. Arsenal backed him as much as they could, but at the start of the 2019/2020 season, the club was not satisfied with the team’s progress and sacked him.Pochettino’s Link to the Arsenal JobMost managers would accept the Arsenal job without thinking too much, so it was no surprise that they had options, with the Daily Telegraph revealing that one of the managers they spoke to was Mauricio Pochettino. He had been sacked by Tottenham after they reached the Champions League final that same year. Despite the fierce rivalry between Arsenal and Spurs, the report says he was open to accepting Arsenal’s offer to become their manager.The revelation adds an intriguing twist to Arsenal’s managerial history, with Pochettino’s willingness to cross the North London divide notable. His experience and reputation made him a credible candidate, and the club’s interest reflects the seriousness of their search. The rivalry would have made such an appointment controversial, but the club’s priorities were clear.(Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)Arteta’s Appointment and Arsenal’s RegretsIt would have been a very surprising move, but Poch did come back to coach Chelsea a few seasons later, and Arsenal certainly does not regret making Arteta their manager. The Spaniard’s arrival marked the start of a new era, and his development into one of the top coaches on the continent has vindicated the club’s decision.Arteta’s journey from rookie to title winner has been remarkable, and the club’s faith in him has been rewarded. The contrast with Pochettino’s path highlights the fine margins in football, and Arsenal’s choice has proven inspired. The Gunners’ current success is built on that decision.Supporters will look back on this period with interest, aware of how different things could have been. Arteta’s impact has been transformative, and the club’s patience with him has paid off. His legacy is still being written, but the early signs are overwhelmingly positive._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsArsenal almost made Pochettino their manager before Arteta20 October 2026, 20:15Peter Schmeichel insists Arsenal won the title because of one man20 October 2026, 19:30Liverpool tries to beat Arsenal to sign their former player20 October 2026, 18:45The post Arsenal almost made Pochettino their manager before Arteta appeared first on Just Arsenal News.