Arsenal: Kylian Mbappe continues to vindicate Arsene Wenger

Per French media, a source close to Kylian Mbappe has stated that Arsene Wenger is a huge convincing factor to join Arsenal, rather than Real Madrid. Mbappe is continuing to vindicate Wenger.

Arsenal are seemingly unwilling to give up on their chase forr Kylian Mbappe. The young Monaco centre-forward was the subject of an £87 million offer earlier in the transfer window, one that was duly turned away by Monaco, and has been at the heart of much of the rumour and conjecture of this summer thus far.

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Arsene Wenger himself has made it clear that he is an admirer of the 18-year-old’s talents, clearly believing that he can emulate the success of a former Monaco starlet, a player who inspired Mbappe and starred under Wenger himself: Thierry Henry.

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And the success that Henry, and other young French players like Patrick Vieira, Nicolas Anelka and Robert Pires, enjoyed under the guidance, coaching and tutelage of Wenger is reportedly a rather convincing reason for Mbappe to make the move to North London. A source close to Mbappe spoke to French media, revealing that he saw the Gunners as the perfect stepping-stone move given the input of Wenger:

"“Wenger is one of the greats. If Kylian signs for Arsenal tomorrow, it will be for him. He knows how to shape the young and especially the former strikers of the French national team, Thierry Henry and Nicolas Anelka. [Lack of Champions League?] The Europa League is not an obstacle in itself.”"

If true, and there is little reason to doubt the validity of the story given the widespread coverage it has received, then it points to the impact and relevance that Wenger still holds with many players around the world today.

While large sections of the fan base may strongly question Wenger’s use and his managerial ability, it is clear that players that have worked under him previously, players in the current squad and prospective players are still acutely aware of the influence that he has.

Among the footballing community, Wenger is still seen as a manager of great quality and importance. His opinion is valued, his coaching his listened to and enacted, and his reputation is intact and is powerful, all because he is still largely trusted and respected.

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Mbappe is simply another who still values Wenger highly. Like Hector Bellerin, Mesut Ozil, Per Mertesacker and Aaron Ramsey, all who have heralded the impact of Wenger, Mbappe sees the Arsenal manager as a voice worth listening to. He is continuing to vindicate an increasingly vilified figure.