Arsenal to erect a statue of Wenger
The statue was erected to pay tribute to Arsene Wenger's achievements with Arsenal. In 22 consecutive years of work, the former French coach led the "Gunners" to three English Premier League titles, 7 FA Cups and 7 English Super Cups. Wenger is the most successful manager in Arsenal history. He is also the only coach to make an undefeated season in the Premier League: winning 26 and drawing 12 matches in the 2003-2004 season.
Wenger once opposed the idea of Arsenal erecting a statue of him. However, according to the Telegraph on December 28, the 73-year-old former coach changed his mind. On December 26, in Arsenal's 3-1 win over West Ham, Wenger appeared at the Emirates Stadium for the first time in more than four years after being sacked.
"Hopefully Arsene will spend more time with us. He has had a great influence on me personally, my career, the way I see football and the club," said Mikel Arteta, current coach of Arsenal. Arsenal and a former student of Wenger, said after the game.
During his 22 years in charge of Arsenal, Wenger was known for his loyalty. He once turned down offers from Man Utd, Barca, Real Madrid and England while working, and two offers in the Premier League after leaving the club.
However, Wenger's legacy was somewhat tarnished in the final stages. For many consecutive seasons, Arsenal fans were annoyed with Wenger only helping the team reach or enter the Top 4 in the Premier League. In the end, the leadership forced him to leave after 1,235 leading games. He once described the decision as "unjust" and "very brutal".
After leaving Arsenal, Wenger became FIFA's Director of Global Football Development. He is also a member of the IFAB Technical and Football Advisory Board - the organization responsible for football rules.
