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After much speculation, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has confirmed his return to Ligue 1 as the new manager of boyhood club AS Monaco.
The Frenchman was previously working with Belgium's national team as their assistant manager. The Monaco appointment was made after the club sacked manager Leonardo Jardim on Thursday.
Henry began his professional career at the club and even helped them win the domestic title in 1997.
Following his appointment, Henry took to Instagram to address the news.
The post had a picture of the AS Monaco crest and the caption read, “It is with great pride that I am delighted to announce that I have accepted the position to become the manager of AS Monaco FC. I was fortunate to receive some very attractive offers over the last few months but Monaco will always be close to my heart. Having started my footballing career with this great club, its seems like fate that I will now begin my managerial career here too. I'm incredibly excited to be given this opportunity but now the hard work must begin. Can’t wait.”
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In a separate statement, Arsenal's highest scorer said, "In the first place, I thank AS Monaco for giving me the opportunity to coach the team of this club so special to me."
"I am very happy to come back to AS Monaco and extremely determined to meet the challenges ahead. I cannot wait to meet the players to start working together."
"It's with great sadness that I must say goodbye to the Belgium national team."
"I have had an incredible two years helping Roberto Martinez coach this wonderfully talented group of players and watch them blossom into the great side they are today."
"I would like to thank the Belgium federation, Roberto, all the staff and players for making a Frenchman feel so welcome amongst all of you Red Devils!"
"I wish you every success in the future and I'm sure there will be even greater things to come."
Monaco vice president and chief executive Vadim Vasilyev said, "His knowledge of football, his passion for the game, his high standards and his commitment to our colors make his nomination a reality."
He added, "Thierry is both aware of the task ahead and eager to start his new job. He can count on our trust and all our support to bring a new dynamic to the team and carry out its mission."
Monaco currently sit at 18th place in the Ligue 1 table after having secured only one win from their opening nine matches.
Twitter has since exploded with reactions to the news:
