Arsenal: A Leader for a New Era

Rumours are about that Arsene Wenger will be on his way this summer to join Florentino Perez’s Galactico revolution Mark II at Real Madrid. This would come as a shock to all gunners fans, and this one in particular doubts that will leave. Nevertheless, it raises some interesting questions about who might replace Mr. Wenger.

As far as I know, I’ve not seen any lists of potentials, but there’s one big factor I feel must be mentioned; The new man will be a long-term choice, probably hand-picked by Wenger, and will be groomed for the role (hence my belief it’s impossible that Wenger will leave THIS summer).

Here’s my take on some possible candidates, and some which may come across as far-fetched; please let us know your thoughts.

Obvious candidates

Dennis Bergkamp: The iceman has gotten his coaching licences and is working with Ajax at the moment; there’s no doubt about how much favour he would have with the fans, and he would bring vast experience to a new generation of Arsenal wizards.

Martin Keown: Remains close to the club, has vast experience in the Premiership and has been involved in most of Arsene Wenger’s success with the Club. Not the most exciting prospect, I doubt he has the flair to take Arsenal to another level but Wenger might feel he will provide the smoothest handover

Tony Adams: Is already gaining experience as a PL manager, albeit with limited success. This choice isn’t as flashy as Bergkamp for example, but definitely would have the faith of the club, Wenger, and the fans.

Less-likely but definitely serious contenders for a long-term job

Jose Mourinho: The special one always likes a big challenge, and I think this would be an honour for him (second only to replacing Sir Alex). I think he would fill the role very well, and I also think fans of the English game would see a new side of him...

I think he would behave with an eye on the long term, rather than being as obnoxious and bombastic as he has been with Chelsea and Inter; different strokes for different folks.

Roy Keane: My personal ‘Fantasy’ top choice, Roy has the utmost respect for arsenal and Wenger, and would be a huge character for us in our search for steel to match the silk.

I don’t know about his current status, but to have the Irish influence at the club once more would be nostalgic and well, fun! He’d also have a go at non-performing youngsters, which would be quite a new (but perhaps welcome at times ) approach.

Phil Brown: Phil Brown has impressed me a lot with Hull this season, and I constantly find myself thinking what he could achieve with the resources of a club like arsenal. Also, the fact that He’s young & British appeals to me a lot; he reminds me of Del boy for some reason.. Would be right at home in London!

Gareth Southgate: Gareth is clearly on a trajectory aimed at a very long career in British Football Management. HE has a decent footballing brain, has been up against the best in the business for a few seasons now (Sir Alex, Wenger, Mourinho, Rafa), and I think he would be a solid and ever-improving pick.

A good communicator and spokesman also, which count a lot for a high profile club like ours.

David Moyes: Last but certainly not least, Moyes has proven he has sticking power (being the third longest serving Manager in the PL), as well as being an avid student of the top managers.

I have observed him take on the PL challenges one by one over the years, and he seems to take them with relish, establishing his team as one of the most consistent outside the top four.

I hope you agree with some of these, but please send in your thoughts and other picks, this should be interesting!

Go on the GUNNERS!

Yousif Asad