JOSE MOURINHO’S No 2 Rui Faria has emerged as a shock contender for the Arsenal job.
The Gunners have compiled a 14-man shortlist as they look for Arsene Wenger’s replacement.
And their willingness to consider Manchester United assistant Faria — Mourinho’s loyal right-hand man — shows their determination to find the right man.
Faria, 42, has worked with Mourinho since 2001, first as a fitness coach and then as his assistant.
But it is believed the Portuguese harbours managerial ambitions of his own and, if Arsenal were to make a serious approach, he would at least be interested in discussing the prospect.
Gunners owner Stan Kroenke has hired rookie coaches at all three of his US sporting franchises.
Arsenal are understood to have designed a template for an “elegant” manager to replace Wenger and who can place the club’s interests ahead of their own.
Juventus boss Max Allegri is favourite.
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And he further signalled his interest in leaving Serie A at the weekend, blasting Italian football’s fascination with tactics.
But ex-Barcelona chief Luis Enrique appears to be falling from favour because of his salary demands, transfer budget wish-list and a perceived self-obsession.
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