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Wenger: NYCFC coach Vieira has potential to succeed me at Arsenal

Phil Cole / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Arsenal's long-serving manager Arsene Wenger is nearing the end of his stay at the Emirates, and while there's no exact schedule for the French tactician to follow as it pertains to his farewell tour, he's not shying away from thinking about what the club will look like after he's gone.

During his 22-year tenure with the Gunners, Wenger has seen many young players develop into seasoned pros, with a select handful moving on into team management in their post-playing days. Among them is former defensive midfielder Patrick Vieira, who now commands the helm of MLS outfit New York City FC.

Currently sitting comfortably at first in the Eastern Conference, Vieira's NYCFC has been a relative success story since he took over in 2016, and while he is currently under contract with Manchester City's ownership group, Wenger sees a role for Vieira at his old stomping grounds.

"He's a guy who has the potential one day, yes," Wenger said, as quoted by ESPN FC, when asked if Vieira could one day succeed him.

"I think he does very well. But overall, after that, this Premier League is special, you know. You have to come in.

"There are plenty of former players who played here who have potential and the intelligence and the knowledge to do it. So there's plenty of choice, don't worry for that."

Wenger added he has been keeping an eye on Vieira's tenure at NYCFC. His current contract with Arsenal ends at the end of next season, though ESPN FC points out there is speculation Wenger could leave earlier should his team fail to capture the Europa League trophy this year.

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