Arsenal will inevitably lose Arsene Wenger to retirement in the next few years and many fans in the Transfer Tavern are concerned as to who on earth could replace their most successful manager ever.
The appointment of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City from the summer was a massive blow to many, as was Carlo Ancelotti taking charge of Bayern Munich, both of whom many felt were perfect replacements for the Gunners legend.
Who on earth could come in is up for debate and taking a glance at the names many are suggesting here at the bar, it’s the same people continuing to pop up- and there’s no guarantee that these exceptional bosses would even succeed in North London.
It’s a difficult path to go down, as Manchester United showed after their struggles following the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, and Arsenal fans are keen to ensure that they don’t follow that route.
In their eyes, the appointment of one of these five would be extremely beneficial and would ensure a smooth transition.
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Thierry Henry
The Arsenal legend has long been touted as a potential future manager for the Gunners and the longer things progress, the more it seems likely he’ll succeed the man who brought him to the club. With speculation Wenger will sign on until 2019, many believe Henry will come into a role to learn from him imminently.
The concern here is whether Henry, a man with no previous managerial experience, can take the burden of leading an Arsenal side in a crucial period of their existence. They have the financial power, the fanbase and the players to succeed at a higher level, it’s just about making that all fall into place.
For that reason, the lack of experience could be the downfall of Henry.
Manuel Pellegrini
Many feel that Manuel Pellegrini is very unfortunate to be heading out of Manchester City, as he’s done nothing wrong, but the way he’s handled the whole situation concerning Pep Guardiola has been remarkable and shows his class.
The Chilean would do a superb job at Arsenal, as he’s got experience of getting the best out of what he’s got and also bringing in shrewd purchases. With links to nations across the world and Europe, Pellegrini may well be the man to take Arsenal to the next level.
Patrick Vieira
Another Arsenal legend, Patrick Vieira is touted as a future manager of Manchester City but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him pop up in North London. Currently earning his managerial stripes in the MLS with New York City FC, in the next few years he could be a strong contender for numerous top jobs.
Vieira knows Arsenal very well, having captained the Gunners during the peak of their powerful reign at the top of English football, and he has the fiery attitude many would love to see Arsene Wenger show in a more regular manner.
However, Vieira has been outspoken regarding Arsenal ever since he left the club in 2006 and that has burned some bridges.
Unai Emery
The 44-year-old Spaniard has done wonders with Sevilla, leading the Andalusian outfit to back-to-back Europa League titles and into the Champions League. However, the Seville-based club will be unlikely to ever compete with the Spanish giants and those in Europe.
Therefore, many would like to see him test himself with a new challenge. He’s well travelled, having managed Spartak Moscow, and would be a shrewd choice to manage the Gunners- with a strong record of breathing young talent into his sides, which is something Arsenal will demand.
Diego Simeone
For many in the bar, Diego Simeone is everything they want Arsene Wenger to be. He’s enjoyed plenty of success with Atletico Madrid, has introduced many young players into the side and is not afraid to get his hands dirty in the transfer market with some shrewd additions.
The work he’s done at the Vicente Calderon is nothing short of remarkable, leading Atletico to Europa League success before dislodging Barcelona and Real Madrid at the top of Spanish football. He also, of course, went agonisingly close to lifting the Champions League.
Remarkably, he hasn’t stopped there and he’s going toe-to-toe with the top-sides again this season. Therefore, there’s no clear reason as to why he’d want to leave just yet but in a few years he may be lured to England.
