It seems that Arsenal have nearly completed their search for a new manager to replace Arsene Wenger.Luis Enrique was the early favourite, but his odds have since tumbled.Massimiliano Allegri was then heavily touted to be Wenger's successor and even met with Arsenal's board for talks, but it is believed there were too many differences between the two parties.And now Mikel Arteta has emerged as the front-runner. David Ornstein even confirmed earlier on Friday:  "He wants the job and there is a feeling among staff that he is set to get it."It's fair to say that the 36-year-old is not the popular choice to take the reigns at Arsenal, with many preferring a much more experienced manager.However, Wenger himself has backed his former player to succeed him."He has all the qualities to do the job, yes and I think as well he is one of the favourites," Wenger told BeIN Sports.  "He was a leader, and he has a good passion for the game and he knows the club well, he knows what is important at the club and he was captain of the club. Why Not?"

PIERS MORGAN TWEETS REACTION

Piers Morgan has had his say, and it's fair to say he's not very happy that Wenger has backed Arteta for the job.

The TV personality and avid Arsenal fans has criticised Wenger's inability to win the league for 15 years, as well as his failure in his last season as the club, as reason why the fans should not listen to his opinion. 

He wrote: "Hmmm. Given that Wenger hasn’t won the League for 15yrs & just finished 6th & 37pts behind this year’s winners... I don’t think we should be taking his advice on who to replace him."

Brutal.

To be fair, he raises a decent point.

Wenger will go down as a legend at the club for the success he brought to the club in his early years, but he has not been able to emulate that in the past 15 years.

Besides, picking a successor has not worked very well before.

Sir Alex Ferguson urged Manchester United to pursue David Moyes when he left in 2013, which the club duly obliged.

We all know how that one turned out.

It is probably best that Wenger stays well clear in Arsenal's search to replace him.

Would you be happy with Arteta taking the reigns at Arsenal? Have your say be leaving a comment below.