Arsene Wenger has today announced through a statement released on Arsenal's website that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season. This would bring his near 22 year stay with the club to an end. The 68 year old was appointed Arsenal manager in September, 1996 when the club was still at it ancestry home of Highbury. In his time, the club moved from it old home to the 60, 000 capacity Emirates stadium in the 2006. Ten years after he initially arrived at the club.
In what has been a difficult season for the club, several fans have clamoured for him to end his stay at the club, that reached a new height last season after series of protest by fans. Despite ending last season with another FA Cup win to placate some sections of the fan base, the malaise of last season spilled over to this, and Arsenal have struggled in the league all season, as they are now prime to end in sixth place, which would be the lowest position Arsenal would end a season under the stewardship of the Frenchman. The Europa League is now an opportunity to end his time at the club on a high.
He had this to say in the statement announcing his departure from the club;
“After
careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the
right time for me to step down at the end of the season.
I am
grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable
years.
I managed
the club with full commitment and integrity.
I want to
thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so
special.
I urge our
fans to stand behind the team to finish on a high.
To all the
Arsenal lovers take care of the values of the club.
My
love and support for ever.”
-Arsene Wenger
The club has indicated that they would make an appointment to replace Arsene Wenger as soon as possible.
The Frenchman's time at the club has fetched Three Premier League titles (1998, 2002, 2004), Seven FA Cups, (1998, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2014, 2015, 2017) and Seven Community Shields, The Europa League could be part of that collection, if Arsenal can win it at the end of the season.
