Arsene Wenger Makes Stellar Choice on His Successor, if Reports True

It’s been a big news day for Arsenal, and it’s still up for debate if the onslaught of news is good or bad. First, it was Alexis Sanchez voicing his frustration over his team mates lack of support, now, it’s Arsene Wenger approving his replacement manager.

The news seems rather sudden, just three days ago the initial report sprung up that Arsene Wenger would be heavily involved in his own replacement, and that Paul Clement was a front runner. Apparently, in a haste that is very un-Arsenal like, that report has now been proven to be more than just a report.

According to sources in Spain, Clement is going to take over for Arsenal at the end of next season. But this still leaves a little confusion because Arsene Wenger signed a three year extension last May, and given the timetable, that means Wenger will only follow-through on two of those years.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 3 observations from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park
• 3 standout players from 1-0 victory over Everton
• 3 positives & negatives from Goodison Park victory
• Arsenal vs PSV preview: Prediction, team news & lineups
• 3 talking points from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park

I could see it being like an apprenticeship type situation, though. Clement could come in and learn under Wenger for the last year of his contract and then take over. It could work out perfectly given Clement’s lack of head-managerial experience.

I like this move. Clement has learned under some of the best coaches in the world and he’s been involved in football for his entire life. Not only that, but I still get warm and fuzzies over the fact that he’s English and Arsenal have this new batch of Englishmen coming through the ranks.

While it could seem like a huge gamble, Clement has coached at Chelsea, PSG and Real Madrid, and while he’s never been the head guy, that is invaluable experience. Plus, it’s not like Wenger is going to just disappear. He will still be around to help while Clement gets settled.

What do you think, Gunner nation, do we like Clement?

Follow Pain in the Arsenal on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.