The CEO of Arsenal, Ivan Gazidis, has defended the renewal of coach Arsène Wenger, a decision that unleashed criticism from the fans after a disappointing season, and has stated that they will provide the Frenchman with "top quality players" so that he can build a reliable project.
"We are looking for top quality players. We have three times more scouts than four years ago, I believe that in order to be a world-class football club, you must be world-class off the field," he explained at an event with fans.
A portion of the 'gunner' fans, who were able to celebrate the winning of the FA Cup this year, showed their displeasure with the renewal of the French coach after the team failed to qualify for the next edition of the Champions League - for the first time in Wenger's 21 years as a coach - after finishing fifth, which condemns them to the Europa League. Additionally, there is the perception that the club is not willing to spend a lot of money in the transfer market.
On the other hand, Gazidis denied that there was a sentimental element behind the decision to renew Wenger. "It was not a sentimental decision, it was a mutual agreement. I care about the club and its values, I want the club to succeed," he emphasized.
With the criticism worsened by the possible departure of Chilean Alexis Sánchez, Gazidis asked for the support of the fans. "There has been disagreement, there has been a lack of unity and dissatisfaction, the board is aware of it. I beg you to unite to support our coach and this team, I want the atmosphere to be united," he concluded.
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Premier League
| Position | PTS | W | D | L |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4Liverpool | 76 | 22 | 10 | 6 |
| 5Arsenal | 75 | 23 | 6 | 9 |
| 6M. United | 69 | 18 | 15 | 5 |
LEADERS
- Diego Costa13GOALS
- Henderson1391PASSES
- RECOVERED BALLS
*Data updated as of June 30, 2017