20 Years at Arsenal, but Arsene Wenger Is Surely Not Ready to Quit Yet

At his latest press conference, Arsene Wenger handed out specially made pens to commemorate his 20 years with Arsenal. He quipped that he was giving them out on the promise that the assembled journalists would write positive things about the Gunners. However, the real question is whether Wenger will put pen to paper and sign a new deal to extends his reign beyond two decades.

The discussion has particular pertinence at the moment because of a certain vacancy in Soho Square. Sam Allardyce’s departure from the England set-up has led to Arsene Wenger being linked with the international job once again. Asked about his potential interest in the role, he told Arsenal.com: “Right now my priority is to do well here. This has always been my club and if I am free one day, why not? But I’m focused on my job right now.” 

It’s unlike Wenger to entertain an idea so openly. Is it possible that he could allow Gareth Southgate to operate as a caretaker boss for the remainder of the season, then take up the England job at the end of his Arsenal contract in 2017?

Wenger signed his last deal in 2014, off the back of Arsenal’s FA Cup triumph. It had been a tumultuous campaign—at one stage, the team was just minutes away from being eliminated in the cup semi-final to championship side Wigan. Had Arsenal fallen at that hurdle, Wenger would surely have been forced to abdicate. Instead, Per Mertesacker grabbed a late equaliser, Arsenal won the semi and later the trophy, and the manager’s time at the helm continued.

In truth, it’s been an up-and-down period even since then. 2015 brought another FA Cup and 2016 the club’s highest Premier League finish for over a decade. However, there have also been low points. Criticisms have been voiced and placards have been raised. At times last season there was clear dissent towards Wenger from an increasingly disgruntled fanbase. On certain occasions, it’s even been unclear whether or not the players have still felt motivated to give their best.

Surviving at any club for 20 years is a remarkable achievement, and consistency has been the hallmark of Wenger’s reign. He has never allowed the club to drop out of the back four, and has seen off several challenges for north London supremacy from …

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