It seems every day there is new speculation about arsene wenger's future at Arsenal. The Frenchman has been a stalwart at the Gunners for decades now, and has brought some of the very best times to them. But in recent years, it has turned slightly sour. Despite two FA Cups in three years, they are without a league win in over 10 years. And, with Wenger's contract up in the summer, it looks increasingly likely that his time with the London club will final come to an end.
Which then raises the big question; who will replace him? Juventus manager Massimilliano Allegri, Atletico manager Diego Simeone and Dortmund manager Thomas Tuchel have all been linked with the position, should Wenger depart.
But one name has been mentioned very little; 29 year-old TSG Hoffenheim manager, Julian Nagelsmann, who has just won Bundesliga coach of the year.
Julian Nagelsmann wins German coach of the year at just 29 after leading Hoffenheim from relegation zone to Champions League positions. pic.twitter.com/ar7L4MHff6
— Elite Daily Football (@SuperBettingBro) March 21, 2017
Nagelsmann has been in charge of Hoffenheim for just over a year, and many eyebrows were raised when a struggling Bundesliga team appointed a 28-year old manager, but he has since gone on to defy those critics.
Hoffenheim miracle worker
When he arrived at Hoffenheim, Nagelsmann only previous coaching experience was with the club's under-19 - a team which he led to the title.
The German club were floundering in the Bundesliga, sitting second from bottom in 17th. Nagelsmann rallied the troops, and did what was required of him, avoiding relegation finishing 15th in the table.
But this season is a different story. Hoffenheim sit 4th in the table and, losing just two games so far all season, European Football is a real possibility.
This is all after losing key-man Kevin Volland to Bayer Leverkusen, and agreeing future transfers to Bayern Munich for defender Niklas Sule and Sebastian Rudy.
Nagelsmann has proved to be flexible with his tactics, playing with three, four and five man defences at various points in the season, and is not afraid to take risks with his formations - perhaps the reason for Hoffenheim's surprise success.
EXPLAINED: Julian Nagelsmann's football philosophy - https://t.co/1kRZ7axond
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) March 22, 2017
A top managerial talent at Hoffenheim pic.twitter.com/8smQOPTqYR
Project builder
Despite being vastly inexperienced, Nagelsmann has shown he is tactically brave and astute - something that the Gunners crave. The step up to one of Europe's biggest clubs would be huge, but it's going to happen sooner or later, and Arsenal would do well to get in there first before some one else does.
But not only that, Nagelsmann offers a long-term project for Arsenal. Although fans will be wanting immediate success, it is not Arsenal's philosophy. He can build Arsenal a successful formula; European domination may not come instantly, but Nagelsmann can revive Arsenal's heritage of attractive play and winning football matches.
Should Arsenal keep hold of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez, they will have the star quality. But, under Nagelsmann's daring tactical guidance, and accompanied by his nurture of their youngsters, Arsenal can build the foundation for success for many years to come.