Wenger speculation grows as Bayern call press conference

Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich could be set to announce Arsene Wenger as their new boss, if reports are to be believed.

The 68-year-old ended his 22-year reign at Arsenal at the end of last season but, following some time out of the game, the Frenchman feels ready to step back into the dugout.

In an interview with German newspaper Bild, Wenger revealed he expected to take up the offer of a new job again early next year.

“I believe that (I will) start again on January 1. I don’t know (where) yet. I feel rested and am ready to work again,” said Wenger, who joined Arsenal from Japanese club Nagoya Grampus Eight in 1996.

“From my 22 years at Arsenal, I have big experience on different levels. There are enquiries from all over the world.”

Now, reports from German outlet Bild have claimed that Wenger could be set to become the new Bayern boss, with the club having scheduled a press conference for 11am UK time on Friday.

President Uli Hoeness, chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic will all attend – and the last time they did so was to announce the return of Jupp Heynckes.

Wenger refused to disclose whether he would be interested in the role in a recent interview with Bild.

“That’s not a topic for me. Uli Hoeness and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge trusted Niko Kovac and they have to hold on to him.

“It’s important that Hoeness and Rummenigge organise the transition,” Wenger told Bild earlier this week.

“I think the power should stay within ex players. People like Philipp Lahm and Oliver Kahn, it’s important that they take over.

“Football lives within you. You don’t learn that at university.”