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Arsenal: Why I’m Happy Arsene Wenger Is Staying
Arsene Wenger is reportedly set to stay with Arsenal for another season amid intense scrutiny and criticism. Here’s why I’m happy he’s continuing.
It has been yet another season unbridled with the tempestuous and turbulent division of the Arsenal fanbase. For many years, doubt and uncertainty have been the prevalent feelings engulfing the Emirates, stirred by the vociferous protests against the current regime and in particular, Arsene Wenger.
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Such an atmosphere culminated in a battle of the skies as the Gunners travelled to the Hawthorns to face West Brom for the Saturday lunchtime kick-off. Amid rumours that an ‘Anti-Wenger’ plane would fly over the ground during the game, fans organised a ‘Pro-Wenger’ plane to also take course over Birmingham, a prime example of the division that ignites the current Wenger debate.
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After the 3-1 loss to Tony Pulis’ side, Wenger stated in his press conference that he had made his decision regarding his future. Given the nature of the loss – they’ve now won just three games in their last eight, two of which are against non-league opposition – and the fact that his contract will expire at the end of the year, it was expected that Wenger would reveal that he is set to end his tenure in North London after 21 years at the club.
Now, though, that is not thought to be so true. On Sunday evening, a wide range of reporters suggested that Wenger is expected to continue as Arsenal manager, signing a one-year deal to continue, perhaps with the intention of implementing some structures which will help the club prepare for the eventual future with the Frenchman at the helm.
It is likely to be an unpopular decision, especially as the portion of fans calling for Wenger’s exit is only growing. However, while I accept that I in the minority with such a viewpoint, I am happy that Wenger is likely deciding to stay, even if just for another year.
Why? Well, it’s probably due to the hopeless optimist in me. Wenger has been revolutionary, for Arsenal, the Premier League and modern-day football worldwide. He was a trailblazer with many of his ideas; he was contrasting to the norm of the brutish, hard-nosed manager; he was intelligent, considered, measured.
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And that is why I admire him so much. His resoluteness and unwavering steadfastness to hold to his ideals is a truly revered and unusual trait. I am desperate for Arsenal to achieve success again. But I am even more desperate to see them do it with Wenger as the spearhead, however much pain and disappointment I must wade through to get there.