Former Argentina international and Manchester United defender, Gabriel Heinze, is reportedly set to make a dramatic return to the Premier League as a member of Mikel Arteta's coaching staff at Arsenal. The move, widely reported on Friday, will see the 47-year-old link up with his former Paris Saint-Germain teammate.
Heinze is expected to fill the vacancy left by Carlos Cuesta, who recently departed the Gunners to take over as head coach at Italian side Parma. This appointment marks a significant addition to Arsenal's backroom staff as they prepare for the upcoming 2025/2026 season.
The connection between Arteta and Heinze dates back to the 2001/2002 season when they played together at PSG. It is believed that their established relationship has been a key factor in Heinze's impending arrival at the Emirates Stadium.
Heinze, known for his tenacious and aggressive playing style, has transitioned into a managerial career since retiring as a player. His coaching journey has seen him at the helm of several clubs, including Godoy Cruz, Argentinos Juniors, and Vélez Sarsfield in his native Argentina. He also had a spell in Major League Soccer with Atlanta United. Most recently, he was the manager of Newell's Old Boys, a position he left in November 2023.
This move to Arsenal will be Heinze's first coaching role in European football, a significant step in his post-playing career. He will join a coaching setup that includes assistant manager Albert Stuivenberg and set-piece specialist Nicolas Jover.
During his playing days, Heinze was a popular figure at Manchester United, where he won a Premier League title. He also had successful stints at Real Madrid and Marseille. His return to English football, and to a rival of his former club, is set to be one of the intriguing storylines of the new season.
