Arsenal players past and present respond to Wenger news
Arsenal players past and present have offered their tributes to outgoing Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
Arsenal revealed on Friday morning that Wenger would leave his post as manager at the end of the season.
The Frenchman has been in charge in north London for 22 years – but has never signed a Scottish player.
It has been revealed that Wenger only revealed his decision to his squad just minutes before an official public announcement was made.
Those he did purchase and nurture over two decades have offered their thoughts on his impending exit.
Per Mertesacker
We have just been informed basically. It is quite emotional and there will be time to digest it but it is a sad feeling right now. Obviously he has been at the club for such a long time, he has been so supportive to me. One major reason why I’m here is because of him. He has trusted me so much throughout my career, in bringing me here, giving me the opportunity to play and making me captain, even when I was injured. It is a sad day for me but we are also moving forward for the future.
Jack Wilshere
To the man who gave me my chance as a 16 year old, and showed unbelievable faith and commitment towards me. Always a gentleman, like a father to me. He always believed in me when most people didn’t. Thank you for everything boss! It’s down to us now.
Aaron Ramsey
It’s been an honour to play for you and win trophies with you. You have been a big influence in my life on and off the field from a boy to a man. I am so happy to see everyone showing gratitude and respect today because you more than deserve it. Thank you Boss.
Hector Bellerin
Personally a very sad day. I am forever in debt to this man. The person who had faith in me and gave me a platform to progress. Thank you for all the memories and trophies boss.
Cesc Fabregas
Wow. I never expected that but it shows the great dignity and class of the man. I will never forget his guidance and support, his tutelage and mentorship. He had faith in me from day one and I owe him a lot, he was like a father figure to me who always pushed me to be the best. Arsene, you deserve all the respect and happiness in the world.
Tony Adams
Thanks for everything Arsene. Move over Herbert. Arsene Wenger [is] the greatest Arsenal manager.
Thierry Henry
His legacy is untouchable. Managers, fans from other teams, (they talk about) how Arsene changed Arsenal. I am happy that now we can all talk about his legacy. Let’s not forget we still have to win the Europa League. It would be an amazing achievement.
Robin van Persie
I will always see you as my footballing father where under your guidance I had the chance to grow as a man and a player, i’m forever thankful for that and wish you all the very best for the next chapter in your life!
Nigel Winterburn
Wenger has been absolutely amazing for Arsenal Football Club. He has kept the club relatively successful, but the one thing the fans wanted him to do was to get this Premier League title challenge and that hasn’t happened. It feels like the right time, and he will be remembered fondly at this club. I think when people look back, they will really appreciate what he has done. I think it’s right, everyone has a clear picture from now until the end of the season, they need to win the Europa League to get into the Champions League.
Lee Dixon
Six years of the most enjoyable successful football of my career. Thank you Arsene. A club legend.
David Seaman
Sad day for Arsenal with Arsene leaving, can we now give him the send off/respect he deserves?!!
Lauren
An emotional day. Arsène took English football to a different level and pushed me to become the player I never thought I’d be. Let’s cherish the memories and his legacy, which will always remain. We must thank him for giving his all to make Arsenal such a great club.
Paul Merson
I played under him for just under a year, it was the fittest I ever was. It was like clockwork. It was a machine. He was so far ahead of his time, it was unbelievable.
Sol Campbell
Wow!
Bacary Sagna
This man didn’t just gave me the opportunity to wear the Arsenal shirt… to discover the premier league… to learn and improve by his side… BUT this man changed my life. I would always be grateful for what he has done for me and my family, especially when I was going through hard personal moments. Your words mean a lot to me and I wanna take time to remind everyone he has made Arsenal bigger, no matter what people are thinking about today. From the bottom of my heart, thank you coach.
— Mohamed ELNeny (@ElNennY) April 20, 2018