'You should be really proud' - Mikel Arteta admits he would like to manage England amid Thomas Tuchel controversy

The Football Association’s (FA) decision to hire the German coach as England's next manager has prompted mixed reactions. While many fans and pundits are excited about Tuchel's tactical expertise, others believe the position should have been offered to an English coach with former internationals Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher being particularly vocal with their criticism.

Despite the controversy surrounding Tuchel’s appointment, Arteta has taken a different stance. The Arsenal boss has welcomed the decision, arguing that the FA should focus on selecting the best candidate for the job, regardless of nationality and also emphasised that Tuchel’s appointment should not be seen as a reflection of poor coaching standards in England.

Speaking to reporters, Arteta explained: "I understand the opinions and the feelings. That’s the responsibility for the FA to say the first filter is only English managers or the filters are any manager from any country and we select the best for the moment that we’re in right now. I understand that it can feel sad for some people not to have an English manager. History tells you how important this could be as well."

Arteta’s connection to English football runs deep. As a player, he once considered switching allegiances from Spain to England during Fabio Capello’s tenure as England coach but the move was ultimately blocked by FIFA regulations. However, he remains open to taking a place in the English dugout in the future.

He told reporters: "I think I would take a lot of pride as well at how many people would do anything to be the England manager. That’s related to how we’re treated in this country as foreigners, the passion, the respect, the history and the way that things are done in this country. I can say personally that when you are not from here. I think there are very few countries that could say that."

When asked whether he would only stick to managing Spain, he dismissed the notion and further clarified: "No – I’ll tell you right now, the feeling I have being here for 22 years. I have that feeling towards it because I always feel respected, welcomed and inspired by this country and the history of football and how you get treated daily. I think that’s something you should be really proud of."

Although Arteta has shown his eagerness to become the England boss, his current priority remains Arsenal. The Spaniard came close in the last couple of years to guiding the Gunners to the Premier League crown but was edged out by Manchester City. This time, after reinforcing the squad in the summer, Arteta is determined more than ever to stop City's juggernaut - especially after making a strong start to the campaign. He will be back pitchside on Saturday at the Vitality Stadium during a top-flight fixture against Bournemouth.