Wenger’s like will never be seen again by Terry Barry
The main reason I decided to support the Arsenal 20 years ago was because of my huge admiration and love for the sort of football he created – Wengerball.
I managed to rationalise my decision to my fellow South London Charlton supporting friends through my familial links with Woolwich and the old Woolwich Arsenal but the real reason was my love for everything Arsene stood for and his view that football was an entertainment and an art form. The likes of Henry, Bergkamp and Pires weaving their magic thrilled me and inspired me to become a fan and to make these players my heroes.
I think the pressures to get points and win trophies in an immensely competitive environment where winning trophies is increasingly shaped by the massive investment in squads in Manchester, Chelsea and even Liverpool- left Wenger and his philosophy in its wake – he tried but with less than half the investment of United and City and hundreds of millions less than Chelsea and Liverpool, it became increasingly difficult for him to play Wengerball.
I know where my preference lies – I much prefer the way a team plays than the result alone. City and now Liverpool are doing it – playing Wengerball and winning – it’s just sad that Arsene wont have one last chance next season.
For now I’m sad but what memories he has given the world of football. His like will not be seen again. Let’s win the Europa League and give him a great send off.
A very sad Terry Barry.