Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed he will step down at the end of the season, ending 22 years at the helm. Rumours had been flying around that the 68-year-old may call time on his managerial career this summer, but it’s unknown if he’ll manage elsewhere or if he’s giving up coaching for good.
He said to Arsenal.com: “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 forever.”
Arsene Wenger’s managerial honours
AS Monaco
- Won the Ligue 1 title in 1987/88
- Won the Coup de France in 1990/91
Nagoya Grampus
- Won the Emperor’s Cup in 1995
- Won the J-League Super Cup in 1996
Arsenal
- Won the Premier League and FA Cup in 1997/98
- Won the Premier League and FA Cup in 2001/02
- Won the FA Cup in 2002/03
- Won the Premier League in 2003/04
- Won the FA Cup in 2004/05
- Won the FA Cup in 2013/14
- Won the FA Cup in 2014/15
- Won the FA Cup in 2016/17
As for this season, it’s been bittersweet for the Gunners. They’re currently sixth in the Premier League table with 54 points from 33 games, 14 shy of fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur. Arsenal are in danger of being caught by seventh-placed Burnley too. The Clarets are just two points adrift, albeit having played a game more.
Wenger’s men have reached a League Cup final this season, losing 3-0 to Manchester City at Wembley on February 25, and they’re in the semi-finals of the Europa League. Arsenal welcome Atletico Madrid to the Emirates in the first leg on Thursday.
