Usmanov: Arsenal 'must retain' Arsene Wenger

Arsenal's embattled boss Arsene Wenger has been given a vote of confidence by Alisher Usmanov, the Russian tycoon who owns over 30 percent of shares in the club.

Wenger has been subject to heavy criticism as the 2015-16 campaign looks to be limping towards a fruitless end. The Premier League title remains as the sole opportunity for silverware this term, but the Gunners are currently 11 points short of surprise league leader Leicester City.

Despite the relinquishing of the FA Cup meaning the trophy cabinet is likely to be collecting dust for at least a year, Usmanov is content at how things are going.

"Arsenal's results are stable. They are always among the leaders of the English Premier League. This is a good and large sports business project, and I am pleased with it," Usmanov told Rossiya24 via ESPN FC.

"The only thing is that today such situation occurred, like in any sport, there are ups and downs. The club must retain its major symbol and main asset - manager Arsene Wenger."

The Frenchman's impact at Arsenal is only rivalled by that of Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in the Premier League era. Previously a team widely slammed for dull and tough-tackling football, Wenger introduced revolutionary training regimes in north London and implemented a brand of swift, attractive play that has since been the blueprint for many other managers in the division.

Suggestions from many in the game and fans in the Emirates Stadium stands, however, are that Wenger's methods are tired, especially when it comes to his stubbornness in not splashing the cash in the transfer market, and that it's time for a fresh approach. Those naysayers would also likely suggest that trophies aren't of the upmost importance to Usmanov and majority shareholder Stan Kroenke while the club continues to make money.

"Failures have been haunting Arsenal for many years now, they cannot become the EPL champions. This has led to some discontent with Wenger's position as a manager," he continued.

"I believe that Arsene Wenger is a great coach, and Arsenal has to give him the opportunity to plan the succession process and leave his legacy when he deems it necessary."

There may be concerns from the Arsenal hierarchy that the transition from Wenger to his successor could be a difficult one. Things haven't run smoothly at United since Ferguson retired from management in 2013, and many stellar names - such as Pep Guardiola, who is set to take the Manchester City helm this summer - are already accounted for. For now, the Arsenal and Arsene bond seems strong.

"It is very important for the football club to maintain the principles that were established by those people who created its victories. Arsenal needs Arsene Wenger."

The Gunners return to action after the international break with a visit from Watford on April 2.