There have been a few rumours flying around about how the Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is being lined up as the favourite to take the England manager job on a permanent basis. Gareth Southgate was previously in the running for the position, but has stated that he has no interest in leading the Three Lions forward. This has boosted the FA to keep a close eye on Wenger’s situation at Arsenal.
When asked recently about the possibility of taking the job, Wenger told the media: “I have a contract until 2017 with Arsenal and I have always respected my contacts, but I do not yet know what I will do afterwards.”
It seems like a pretty standard comment to me to be honest, rather than Wenger exactly hinting at his future, like the media suggests. Wenger can be very coy when it comes to speaking to the media and this is another prime example. However what he has said is completely true and if Arsenal don’t offer Wenger another deal after his contract ends at the conclusion of next season, then perhaps the England job would be of interest to him.
I’m sure Wenger would love to manage an international side before his retirement from management and although it seems that the France job may be beyond him, perhaps England could satisfy his desires.
I have always maintained that I would prefer for Wenger to make his way upstairs at Arsenal, after he leaves his position as manager. This is because I think he still has a lot to offer the Gunners from the higher positions upstairs and has a such an influence on the club that it wouldn’t hurt to keep him in Arsenal’s presence, just not down on the pitch.
By AH