Mikel Arteta: Arsenal players 'shocked' by Spaniard's STUNNING staffing request

The Spaniard is set to leave Manchester City in the coming days to replace Arsene Wenger at the Emirates.

Arteta captained the side for three of the five years he spent at Arsenal, and was loved by the Gunners faithful.

However, according to Goal, the former midfielder has made the worst possible start to his life as a manager.

The publication reports Arteta has ordered long-serving head of medical services Colin Lewin to be replaced after the pair fell out during their time together under Wenger.

The 36-year-old is reportedly still unhappy with Lewin after he rushed him back from injury in 2016.

And Arsenal players are said to be shocked at the decision.

Meanwhile, a host of other backroom staff are also set to be axed in the coming weeks.

Assistant Boro Primorac, first-team coach Neil Banfield, goalkeeping specialist Gerry Peyton, fitness coach Tony Colbert and equipment manager Paul Johnson have all been relieved of their duties at the club.

And according to the Daily Star, physios Ben Ashworth, Andrew Rolls and James Haycock - have all been told there will be just one position open to them.

Arteta will look to bring his own coaching staff in over the summer, with Santi Cazorla and Robert Pires being tipped for backroom roles.

Major changes have already taken place at Arsenal over the last 18 months, with Sven Mislintat arriving as head scout, and Raul Sanllehi as head of football relations.