Former Arsenal FC attacker Robert PirA?s insists that Gunners legend Thierry Henry can take over from ArsA?ne Wenger when the Frenchman decides to call it a day
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Arsenal FC have had two successful seasons in recent years, winning back to back F.A. Cups and finishing as high as third in the league last season. This term, the Gunners look like serious title contenders, particularly with Chelsea FC falling apart and Manchester United struggling to hit top form.
ArsA?ne Wenger’s current contract runs till 2017, but there have been rumours about a further two-year extension, which would give Henry plenty of time to collect his coaching badges and get some management experience under his belt.
PirA?s believes Henry can replace Wenger as manager
PirA?s was one of the star names involved in David Beckham’s charity ‘Match for Children’ at Old Trafford on Saturday, and is currently enjoying a break after playing for FC Goa in the Indian Super League last season.
The Frenchman insisted that former teammate Thierry Henry can replace Wenger as Arsenal FC manager, saying (via Daily Mail): “Can I see Thierry Henry taking over from Arsene Wenger? Yes, why not? He is working on his badges. He’s involved with the U19 team at Arsenal’s academy. He’s preparing himself step by step and he wants to get his badges.
“Question is; would Arsenal want Henry? It depends on the board, the chairman. I can see Henry, as well as Vieira. It’s up to the club to prepare well for the post-Arsene era. That’s crucial.”
Vieira a more likely candidate than Henry
Patrick Vieira is much more likely to be ready to take over from Wenger than the legendary Arsenal FC striker, given that he is several years ahead in terms of management experience. The former Gunners midfielder was involved with Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad (EDS) for two years, and has now taken over as the manager of MLS franchise New York City.
It would take a minor miracle for Henry to be ready to manage a club of the magnitude of Arsenal FC in the near future, considering he is yet to enter the coaching business. The former France striker also works for Sky Sports as a pundit, and he might have to give up that role if he wants to seriously pursue a career as a manager.