Except the unexpected happens, former all-conquering Barcelona coach, Pep Guardiola, will replace Arsene Wenger as Arsenal’s coach next year. Though Wenger, 63, is under contract through the end of the 2013-14 season, indications are that he may not last beyond the current football season in view of Arsenal’s declining fortunes under his watch.

News Express reports that Wenger seems to be losing the confidence of both his players and the rest of the technical crew. A number of first team players including Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla are reportedly baffled by Wenger’s tactics, team selection, and failure to adequately replace erstwhile captain Robin van Persie, who has proved to be an instant hit at Manchester United.

Meanwhile, Wenger’s training methods and relationship with Steve Bould, his new assistant, have been called into question following the embarrassment of Tuesday’s Capital One Cup defeat against League Two side Bradford City, according to reports from England.

Yesterday, the Frenchman came under more pressure following the revelation by Guardiola that he would be willing to manage Arsenal next year. As reported by Goal.com: “Representatives of the former Barcelona manager have let it be known to the north London club that he would be very keen to be considered for the manager’s job if it was to become available next year. Guardiola’s preference in England is Arsenal.”

The 41-year-old Guardiola (see photo) stepped down as Barcelona manager at end of last season, citing burnout and a need to “recharge his batteries” at the end of a highly successful four years in charge. He is presently enjoying a one-year sabbatical, living in New York City, USA, with his family. Among big European clubs reported to be on his trail are Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, AC Milan, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain.