Ex-Arsenal star explains why Arteta 'could be the next Wenger'

Former Arsenal full-back Gael Clichy has explained why Gunners boss Mikel Arteta can emulate the legendary Arsene Wenger.

Gael Clichy ‘really believes’ that Mikel Arteta has the potential to become ‘the next Arsene Wenger’ at Arsenal.

Arteta’s one-and-a-half-years in charge have seen its fair share of highs and lows. After a spell as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, the Spaniard led Arsenal to FA Cup and Community Shield success in his rookie year as a manager. Things, though, soon went downhill.

Back-to-back eighth-place Premier League finishes, the club’s failure to qualify for Europe last season, and a tough start to the current campaign left Arteta in the firing line.

Mikel Arteta on Arsene Wenger 🗣

"When he left everything didn't go with him, a lot of things stayed and the biggest thing was the way that he was able to educate and transmit the values and respects to what this club is about." pic.twitter.com/P38TFqIBZy

— Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) September 26, 2021

But a four-match winning run, including a 3-1 derby win over Tottenham on Sunday, has lifted the mood. Confidence levels are on the up, with Clichy now backing Arteta to follow in the footsteps of Arsenal’s legendary former manager Wenger.

“Arteta has so much knowledge and he had the luxury to learn from Pep,” the former Gunners full-back told BBC before Sunday’s north London derby victory.

“I really believe in the long term he could be the next Arsene Wenger. He is quite young, and I truly believe, given time, he will prove people wrong.”

Clichy made 264 appearances under Wenger during an eight-year spell in north London between 2003-08. He won three trophies at Arsenal, including the Premier League title in 2004.

The 36-year-old currently plays for Swiss club Servette following further spells with Manchester City and Istanbul Basaksehir.