Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta has not played well since earning the captain’s honor in the 2014-15 season – in large part because he has not played much at all. With injuries hampering the 33-year-old Spanish star, Arteta could be hanging up the cleats sooner rather than later.

According to the Mirror [per the Metro], Arteta plans to retire at the end of the season, which would put an end to a nearly two-decade career in senior football that began with Barcelona B in 1999.

Arteta has only made ten appearances in all competitions this season with just one start coming in the Champions League. Last season was no better as the Spanish veteran made just seven Premier League appearances and played 11 games.

The Metro reported last week that Arteta is being lined up for a possible coaching job at Man City under incoming manager Pep Guardiola.

Among the favorites to replace Arteta as Arsenal captain are defensive stalwart Per Mertesacker and goalkeeper Petr Cech.

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