Arsenal Unveils Arsene Wenger Statue at Emirates Stadium
Arsenal has announced the unveiling of a statue to honor former manager Arsene Wenger, commemorating his significant contributions to the club. The bronze statue, standing at 3.5 meters tall and weighing about half a ton, was sculpted by renowned artist Jim Guy. It depicts Wenger lifting the Premier League trophy and is placed outside the Emirates Stadium. The base of the statue bears Wenger’s name and the period he served as Arsenal’s manager.
“In his 22 years at Arsenal, Wenger led our men’s team in 1,235 matches, guiding us through the most successful era in the club’s history. He transformed the identity of the club with his visionary approach to football. Wenger is regarded as the man who shaped modern Arsenal,” Arsenal wrote on their official website.
Prior to Wenger, there were five Arsenal legends immortalized with statues outside the Emirates Stadium, including former players Tony Adams, Dennis Bergkamp, and Thierry Henry, all of whom were Wenger’s former pupils. The other two are Herbert Chapman and Ken Friar.
Arsenal has invited Wenger to attend the unveiling ceremony and introduce the statue on August 2nd, coinciding with the Emirates Cup match against Monaco. The statue’s debut aligns with Arsenal’s celebration of the 20th anniversary of the 2003-2004 season, during which they achieved an undefeated Premier League triumph.
“This statue represents the club’s long-lasting respect and gratitude towards Arsene. It is a place where all Arsenal fans can visit and remember his contributions and legacy,” said Tim Lewis, the club’s executive board member.
Current Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also expressed his appreciation for having played under Wenger’s guidance. “He chose me as one of his players and handed me the captain’s armband. I will never forget that,” the Spanish coach said.
Wenger served as Arsenal’s head coach from October 1996 to May 2018. During his tenure, he led the club to three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups, and 20 consecutive appearances in the Champions League.
Wenger’s contributions extended beyond his managerial achievements. He played a significant role in establishing the London Colney training ground, which opened in October 1999, and played a crucial part in Arsenal’s transition from Highbury Stadium to the Emirates in 2006.
