Arsenal: Hector Bellerin Threatens Arsene Wenger’s Very Foundation

Hector Bellerin is once again being linked with a move to Barcelona. An exit would threaten the very foundations that Arsene Wenger has built at Arsenal.

Arsene Wenger has a set of ideals that he in unwavering in directing how he manages Arsenal football club. Throughout his 21 years in North London, he has moulded and shaped the organisation into his own image, ensuring that every decision, from the playing personnel to the lunchtime menus at the canteen align with how he wants the club to be managed.

Related Story: Arsene Wenger's Best Starting XI

There are many principles with which he abides by uncompromisingly, from his economic principles to his attacking priorities. However, perhaps the most important of all of his stubbornly supported ideas is the acquiring and the subsequent development of youth.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 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
• Mikel Arteta provides Gabriel Martinelli injury update after Everton win

Throughout his time at Arsenal, Wenger has scoured the continent for the top young talents that he can bring under his tutelage and coach them into starring members of the squad. There are many examples of who have benefitted from Wenger’s coaching touch, but most recently, players such as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Hector Bellerin represent the benefit of the youth policy to the current squad.

That is why the rumours linking the latter with a move away are so concerning. When asked about whether Barcelona may be interested in signing Bellerin in the summer, technical secretary Robert Fernandez stated:

"“We [Barcelona] can do something there. It’s true. Signing [a right-back] could be now important. Well, Bellerin is a player who has a contract at Arsenal. He is a magnificent player, undoubtedly, but there are more right-backs [who could be interested]. Barcelona have the obligation to have many right-backs under control.”"

And if Bellerin were indeed to depart in either the summer or the foreseeable future, then very much like Cesc Fabregas before him, who was signed as a 16-year-old from Barcelona before returning to his home team, it would shake the very foundations with which Wenger is orchestrating the football club.

What is the point in signing so many young, gifted players, investing time, energy, effort and money in their development, only to be forced to sell them just as they reach their prime? Ultimately, there is very little benefit for the club.

Next: Arsenal Vs Spurs: Predicted Starting XI

Bellerin could well leave the Emirates this summer, especially if Wenger cannot offer him Champions League football. If that is the case, then the success rate of Wenger’s youth policy seriously comes into question.