Veteran French coach Arsene Wenger announced this morning his definitive retirement from activity after 22 years at the helm of Arsenal.
“I am very grateful to have the privilege of serving the club for so many memorable years,” said the strategist who led Alexis Sanchez to the Premier League.
At 68, Wenger saw his empire decline in the past two seasons. Almost certainly the UEFA Champions League dispute will be lost again after 20 years of constant participation – and finally lost to Barcelona in 2006 – dimming an almost impeccable race in the Gunners.
Wenger ordered the house, put an end to the “culture of alcohol” so ingrained among the Gunners at the end of the last century and gave a leap in competitiveness that allowed him to reach almost twenty local trophies, including three Premier League and one of them in the capacity of unbeaten.
In a statement posted on the Gunners’ website, Wenger explained that “after a thorough consideration and after several conversations with the club, I feel it is the right time to withdraw at the end of the season.”
Likewise, I have asked the fans to maintain their support for the London team. “I ask the fans to support the team to finish on top, for all Arsenal fans, we must take care of the club’s values, my love and my support forever,” he added.
The Gunners announced that they will shortly seek replacement for the French coach.
