Wenger to step down as Arsenal manager at end of season
Arsene Wenger's illustrious reign as Arsenal manager is officially ending after more than two decades.
The French tactician announced Friday he has decided to leave his post at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on a 22-year stint in England in which the 68-year-old captured three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups, and seven Community Shields.
"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," Wenger said. "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 for ever."
Arguably the most impressive accomplishment of Wenger's Arsenal career was leading the 2003-04 side to a near-perfect Premier League season of 38 matches without a defeat, outlasting the 1888-89 Preston North End squad that went 22 league matches and five FA Cup fixtures without a loss. That Gunners squad, captained by French midfielder Patrick Vieira and spearheaded in attack by a young Thierry Henry, earned the nickname "The Invincibles" for the memorable campaign in which they successfully defended the league title.
Arsenal majority owner Stan Kroenke lamented Wenger's decision to depart.
"This is one of the most difficult days we have ever had in all our years in sport. One of the main reasons we got involved with Arsenal was because of what Arsene has brought to the club on and off the pitch," Kroenke said. "His longevity and consistency over such a sustained period at the highest level of the game will never be matched. ...
"Arsene has unparalleled class and we will always be grateful to him. Everyone who loves Arsenal and everyone who loves football owes him a debt of gratitude. ... He has also transformed the identity of our club and of English football with his vision for how the game can be played."
Wenger first took over as caretaker for the Gunners on Oct. 1, 1996 following a combined 11 years as a manager in Ligue 1 with Nancy and Monaco. Wenger's career truly took off with the latter, as he guided the side to just its fifth Ligue 1 title ever in 1987-88 before securing the Coupe de France in 1991.
After being dismissed from Monaco's helm in 1994, Wenger journeyed overseas to take over Japanese outfit Nagoya Grampus Eight where he won the Emperor's Cup in 1995. He managed the Japanese side until Aug. 28, 1996 before being unveiled as Arsenal's new gaffer one month later.