Arsenal chiefs 'wanted Jose Mourinho to succeed Unai Emery'

Senior figures at Arsenal reportedly wanted Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho to replace Unai Emery as the club's next manager.

The latter was removed from his post at the Emirates on Friday following a run of seven games without a victory.

Just over a week earlier, Spurs sacked Mauricio Pochettino and almost immediately installed Mourinho, who has won his opening two games as Spurs boss.

According to Sky Sports News, senior figures at Arsenal wanted Mourinho to succeed Emery, only for the Portuguese to complete a move to their biggest rivals instead.

Massimiliano Allegri, Carlo Ancelotti, Brendan Rodgers, Mikel Arteta and Nuno Espirito Santo are all said to be in the running to become the next permanent boss.

Former Gunners star Freddie Ljungberg has taken over as manager on an interim basis until the club locates a replacement.