Arsenal unveil Arsene Wenger statue outside the Emirates Stadium

Arsenal have unveiled a majestic bronze statue of former manager Arsene Wenger outside the Emirates Stadium. 

The 3.5 metres tall statue captures the Hall of Fame inductee lifting the Premier League trophy, immortalising his success during his tenure from 1996 to 2018.

The statue now graces the North Bank Stand, where fans and players will forever be reminded of the incredible feats achieved under Wenger’s stewardship. 

The 73-year-old will grace Arsenal’s home friendly on Wednesday against AS Monaco, another club he once managed, as a fitting guest of honour for the grand occasion.

Wenger’s legacy at Arsenal is so deeply ingrained that last season’s gallant title battle and second-placed finish under Mikel Arteta was their best Premier League campaign since the end of Wenger’s era. 

Over an incredible span of 22 years, Wenger managed an astounding 1,235 matches, a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment to the Gunners’ cause.

Perhaps his crowning glory came in the unforgettable 2003/04 season when Arsenal marched through the Premier League unbeaten – an achievement that has remained unmatched. 

Wenger’s astute leadership ensured Arsenal’s presence in the prestigious Champions League for 20 consecutive years, making the upcoming season the first UCL campaign without him at the helm since 1991/92.

Current Arsenal manager and former midfielder under the Frenchman, Mikel Arteta, expressed profound gratitude for the tribute, acknowledging Wenger’s lasting impact on the club and his own career. 

Arteta remarked (via AFC’s official website), “It is such a great tribute that the club has done something special for Arsene that he fully deserves and merits.

“With a statue now at the stadium, Arsene can have that recognition and be here at our club forever. 

“I’m so grateful to have played for Arsene at this club in my career. He chose me to be one of his players and selected me to be the captain of the club, and that’s something I will never forget.”