The football world is still reeling from the decision taken by Arsene Wenger to step down from the managerial position of Arsenal Football Club at the end of the season.The decision came abruptly as everyone was expecting Wenger to stay until the end of his contract which was ending next season.
Arsenal released a statement from Wenger on their website. It 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 forever.”
The Gunners are having a poor season as they are out of the top 4 race in the Premier League. There only hope of qualifying for the Champions League hinges on their performance in the Europa League as the winners get a direct entry to the group stages. The odds are stacked against them as they will be taking on the tournament favourites Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals. Arsenal fans and the team would be hoping that they can send their legendary manager on a high by winning the Europa League.
As soon as the news broke out regarding Wenger stepping down, speculations started to began regarding their future manager. One such name which is doing the round is that of former Liverpool manager, Brendan Rodgers.
Rodgers came perilously close to winning the Premier League with Liverpool and currently, he has been dominating the Scottish League with Celtic. Rodgers made his name when he took the unfancied Swansea City to the Premier League.
Many of the Arsenal fans will be unhappy with the fact that they are considering Brendan Rodgers as he hasn’t delivered much at the big stage and with much experienced and proven managers available like Carlo Ancelotti, the fans would want someone with a proven track record.
But in hindsight, if one tries to think, an appointment like Carlo Ancelotti will solve the problem on a short-term basis and Rodgers will be more of a long-term option. The former Liverpool manager likes to play expansive and possession-based football and could be a right fit to Arsenal’s philosophy. He has an immaculate track record with the Hoops and will not be that bad a prospect as many people think he would be.
