I am ready - 47-year-old upset by Aston Villa defeat targets Arteta's job at Arsenal

Ibrahim Olawoyin's manager has set his sights on replacing Mikel Arteta at Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Caykur Rizespor manager Ilan Palut has set his sights on one day taking over the reins at Arsenal, admitting he is an admirer of the way the Premier League leaders have developed young talent.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Palut currently manages the Super Lig’s newbies where Nigeria’s Ibrahim Olawoyin plies his trade. 

Arteta’s Arsenal Job at Risk

In an interview with A Spor, the 47-year-old opened up on his long-term ambitions, stating his readiness to take on the challenges of coaching at the highest level.

"Of course (I want to coach a European giant)," Palut declared. "This job gets harder as the level increases. It gets harder as the pressure increases. I am ready for whatever is the most difficult job."

The Turkish tactician name-dropped the Gunners as a club he would relish the opportunity to manage, citing their track record of nurturing up-and-coming stars as a key factor behind his admiration.

"There is a team (I would like to manage in the future). I like it very much. I follow their development, I see how young players reach an elite level and play head-on in the most difficult league," he said.

"There is only one team in this regard; Arsenal. Why not? I hope (I can work at Arsenal)."

Palut went on to laud Mikel Arteta's men for their unexpected title charge this term, revealing his dismay at their recent slip-up against Aston Villa which has allowed Manchester City to cut the gap at the summit.

"It is difficult, but I follow them with envy because they have recruited young players in that great league. They are pushing for the title in the toughest league this year, too," he added.

"I am very upset about the match against Aston Villa (that 2-0 home defeat in April). It was an accident that shouldn't have happened. I am a keen follower of Arsenal and I want them to be champions this year."

Palut is currently cutting his teeth in the Turkish top flight with Rizespor, but his latest comments suggest he has grander aspirations of making his mark on one of Europe's biggest stages someday.

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