Next Arsenal manager: Patrick Vieira and Mikel Arteta NOT ready to replace Arsene Wenger

That is according to former Gunner Emmanuel Petit.

Arsene Wenger is preparing to step down at the end of the season, and both players have been linked with the role.

Vieira and Arteta both enjoyed long careers at Arsenal and were widely respected by supporters at the Emirates.

The former has since moved into coaching with Manchester City and New York City.

While the latter has helped the Citizens to a Premier League title while assisting Pep Guardiola at the Etihad.

But according to Petit, both former midfielders should not be appointed as Wenger's successor.

"For me, Allegri has done remarkable work at Juve with a budget far from that of the big European teams," he told RMC.

"Vieira could also be a solution, but I think it's still premature.

"[On Arteta] I [also] don't see it.

"He's very good next to Pep Guardiola on the bench at Manchester City.

"Arteta is loved by the Arsenal fans, but Vieira leaves with a much higher love capital."

As well as the two former Arsenal stars, Massimiliano Allegri has also been touted as the next manager at the north London outfit.

However, the Juventus chief will not be discussing his future until the summer.