EPL 2016/17: 5 reasons why Arsenal should not reward Arsene Wenger with a new contract

Modified May 06, 2017 13:15 GMT

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Arsene Wenger, Manager of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal at White Hart Lane on April 30, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) — *Arsene Wenger has been an institution at Arsenal, but is his time finally up?*

#5 He’s in danger of spoiling his legacy

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: A police officer stands in front of the picture of former manager Alex Ferguson prior to the Premier League match between Manchester United and Watford at Old Trafford on February 11, 2017 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) — *Alex Ferguson seemed to get out of Man United at just the right time to keep his legacy intact*

It might sound strange but you could make an argument that Arsenal dispensing of Wenger could actually be the best thing for the Frenchman himself. After all, it’s better – particularly in sport – to go out on top in a blaze of glory rather than simply fade away as a shadow of your former self.

Wenger’s old rival Ferguson is the best example of this – he walked away after winning the league in 2012/13, but it could definitely be argued that he chose that time specifically because he felt his grip on both Manchester United and the Premier League weakening due to an inferior squad.

Wenger doesn’t quite have that opportunity simply because Arsenal have slipped much further than Ferguson’s United ever did, but without Champions League football next year, things could get even trickier for Arsenal, especially with clubs such as Tottenham and Liverpool looking to consolidate themselves as European powers and the likes of Everton chasing those top four spots too.

I’m sure Wenger would like to be remembered as the man who led Arsenal to a remarkable title victory in 1997/98 and the man who masterminded the Invincible season rather than the man who was in charge as Arsenal finally slipped out of their perennial Champions League spot.

While he might believe he can still turn things around, it just wouldn’t be that easy. Which is why Arsenal should make the decision and save his legacy for him before it’s too late.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Staff Editor