A relief for Wenger
Frenchman can breathe easy as Gunners keep critics at bay
LONDON: Arsene Wenger admitted Arsenal’s spirited English FA Cup semi-final victory against Manchester City was a huge relief because it proved his players can thrive under intense pressure.
Wenger’s side were on the brink of yet another painful defeat in a turbulent season after being outplayed by City and falling behind to Sergio Aguero’s second half strike at Wembley on Sunday.
It was exactly the kind of do-ordie situation that has been the downfall of Wenger’s notoriously fragile team in the past.
But for once Arsenal rose to the challenge, showing unexpected levels of grit and determination as they drew level through Nacho Monreal before Alexis Sanchez grabbed the winner in extra-time.
The 2-1 success booked a Cup final date with English Premier League leaders Chelsea on May 27 in what will be a record 20th appearance in the showpiece match for the Gunners.
And for Wenger, it was an encouraging sign that Arsenal have enough mental strength to ride out the storm currently buffeting his club.
“I felt it was a big test for us, a mental test because many people question if we can turn up on an occasion like this,” Wenger said.
“That’s why I’m very proud of the players because they stayed united and determined. We gave a strong response.
“We had a little bit of a cautious start but we didn’t give chances away and we grew into the game.
“I want the players to enjoy playing together and to play for the club.
“That is the most important thing and to reach the targets we set together.
“Football is a team sport and as a manager, the biggest joy is when you feel like you have a real team performance.”
In the short term at least, Arsenal’s progress to the final might buy Wenger some welcome breathing space amid constant calls for his resignation from angry fans frustrated at their team’s struggles in recent years.
Wenger hasn’t signed an extension to the contract that runs out at the end of the season and is yet to reveal whether he will remain in charge next term.
The 67-year-old is well aware that failure to lift back into the Premier League’s top four, which brings qualification from the Champions League, over the final weeks of the season will trigger a fresh barrage of abuse from the doubters.
But he is reportedly keen to stay and, after once again dodging the chance to make his future plans clear, he emphasised Arsenal still have a bright future despite their recent woes.
“You know I feel the club is in a very strong shape and that we have a very strong overall situation and a very strong team, we have shown that today and for me, that is the most important,” he said.
“One day I will leave anyway so the most important thing is that Arsenal will always be a great club that everybody admires.” — AFP