Arsene Wenger To Leave Arsenal After 22 Years

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will leave the club at the end of the season after a 22-year reign at the club, the Frenchman announced on Friday.

Wenger won three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups but had tough last seasons of his career.

The Gunners are sixth in the league and set to miss out on a top-four spot for the second straight season.

"I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years," said Wenger. "I managed the club with full commitment and integrity.

"To all the Arsenal lovers, take care of the values of the club."

Reactions from all the football world, players and fans poured in:

Per Mertesacker, Arsenal club captain: “One major reason why I’m here is because of him. It’s been emotional and there will be time to digest it but it is a sad feeling right now. He’s been the major figure for this club for over 20 years. He’s been so impressive for me and he’s trusted me so much throughout my career, in bringing me here, giving me the opportunity to play here and making me captain even when I was injured. He also gave me a future role here at the club, so I’m very grateful and humbled for the opportunity he gave to me. It is a sad day for me but we’re also moving forward for the future.”

Thierry Henry, former Arsenal striker: “It is a sad day for me to see the big man leaving the club, and happy one in a way that people give him the exit he deserves. Recently it has been hard for him and the club. Starting from Sunday, against West Ham, I hope people go to the game and not only see him in one of his last games at the Emirates and to support the team, but also to give him a good exit. I did not expect it, he will have his reasons, it is a weird one for me.”

Sir Alex Ferguson, former Manchester United boss: “I am really happy for Arsene Wenger. I have great respect for him and for the job he has done at Arsenal. It is great testament to his talent, professionalism and determination that [he] has been able to dedicate 22 years of his life to a job that he loves. In an era where football managers sometimes only last one or two seasons, it shows what an achievement it is to serve that length of time at a club the size of Arsenal.”

Pep Guardiola, Manchester City: “He is a huge personality. The Premier League is the Premier League thanks to what he has done. These people are necessary in football. It was a pleasure to compete against him. I wish him all the best in the future. Hopefully he can be involved in the game in a different way.”

Jose Mourinho, Manchester United: “I am really happy for him. I am pretty sure that we as a club, and especially because Mr Wenger and Arsenal were for many years the biggest rivals of Sir Alex’s era, will show Mr Wenger the respect he deserves.”

The fans had a mixed reaction. "BREAKING: Wenger out." tweeted journalist Piers Morgan,

"I love Wenger but it’s time for him to go. It’s like having to convince your Granddad he’s too old to drive his car. A sad day for all involved but it’s for the best.": comedian Rob Beckett tweeted.

"Arsène Wenger, thank you for all the achievements, over such a long period, for the club I love," tweeted Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn.