Published 16:55 IST, April 20th 2020
When Arsene Wenger announced his retirement after 22 years at Arsenal on April 20, 2018
It was two years back on this day (April 20, 2018) that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger decided to step down, bringing an end to one of the longest PL stints.
- SportFit
- 3 min read
Monday was the second anniversary of former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger's final day in the Premier League, bringing an end to one of the longest stints in the history of club football. The French tactician, widely regarded as one of the greatest managers in football, spent 22 seasons at Arsenal, before announcing his retirement on April 20, 2018. Let us have an overview of his time at Emirates.
Arsene Wenger Premier League record
Arsene Wenger joined Arsenal in 1996, which was preceded by a two-season stay with the Japanese side Nagoya Grampus Eight. Having managed the likes of Monaco in Ligue 1, it was time for Wenger to step into the Premier League. However, the first season didn't begin well for the French tactician, finishing third in the Premier League while also missing out on the Champions League qualification to Newcastle United on goal difference.
Arsene Wenger Arsenal record: Three Premier League titles
However, Arsene Wenger's magic began in his second season when he guided Arsenal to the Premier League title. His side again won the Premier League in 2001-02 and 2003-04. The 2003-04 Premier League triumph went down in history as an extraordinary achievement as his side were unbeaten throughout the season, thus being decorated as 'The Invincibles.' He also won the FA Cup on five occasions (1997–98, 2001–02, 2002–03, 2004–05, 2013–14, 2014–15, 2016–17).
Arsene Wenger Premier League record: 3-time 'Manager of the Year' award winner
The Arsene Wenger Arsenal record was stunning considering the number of years he spent. The French tactician managed 1235 games, winning 707, with a win percentage of 57.20%. He was also crowned as the Premier League manager of the season thrice during his successful career (1997–98, 2001–02, 2003–04), as well as being crowned as France Football manager of the year in 2008.
Arsene Wenger Arsenal record: Fails to win Champions League
Arsene Wenger also won the Community Shield seven times in his 22-season stay. However, the manager failed to ensure a Champions League victory as against his rivals like Sir Alex Ferguson, who won the European competition twice with the Red Devils. After his resignation, Wenger has taken up the role of FIFA’s new Chief of Global Football Development since November 2019.
Updated 16:55 IST, April 20th 2020