Wenger in 7th heaven
ARSENE WENGER made history and then claimed defiantly: I’m still the man to lead Arsenal.
The Frenchman collected his seventh FA Cup as the Gunners upset title-winners Chelsea in a captivating Wembley showdown.
Wenger’s future will be decided at a board meeting this week, ending months of uncertainty about his position.
But after parading the trophy he was asked if he was the right man for the job. He said: “I believe I am. You cannot have 35 years at the top level if you are not the right man to do the job.
“It would be a bit ridiculous for my
future to depend on one game. And for 20 years to depend on the outcome of one game. I know my mind. “There’s no perfect way to go. I just want to do well for this club. After that, it’s down to the board members. “Am I the right man to take this club further? That’s for me to decide as well. It’s not about popularity. It’s about competence.” Alexis Sanchez set Arsenal on their way with a controversial fourth-minute opener. Diego Costa equalised for Chelsea, who had Victor Moses dismissed – collecting a second yellow card for diving – before Aaron Ramsey headed home the winner for a 2-1 victory. Wenger appeared to have a hunger for the future, dropping hints about the potential of the team – and suggesting an assault on the title is possible next season.
He added: “This team is moving forward. The way we play suits our players because the way we function gets the best out of their individual qualities. I said this week the club
has exceptional potential. This team will be in the championship with one or two good buys.
“They showed strength and unity and played spectacular football today.”
And Wenger also hit back at those on the terraces who have allowed their criticism to filter through to the team.
He said: “We have had difficult moments this season. I’ve spent every minute of my season refusing to give up and that’s why today I’m prouder than usual. It would have been easy to give up, but we have refused to.
“I feel I’m in a public job. I accept criticism and that people don’t agree with me. Once the game starts, you stand behind the team.”
Match-winner Ramsey insisted: “Of course I want Arsene to stay. I’m really happy for the manager. He deserved this. We owe him a lot.”