Pires tips Henry or Ancelotti to replace Wenger at Arsenal

Forum 9 years ago

Pires tips Henry or Ancelotti to replace Wenger at Arsenal

Robert Pires has tipped Thierry Henryor Carlo Ancelotti to replace Arsene Wenger at Arsenal in the future.
The 41-year-old spent six years at the Gunners between 2000 and 2006, winning the Premier League twice and FA Cup three times, only to see the club go nine years without a trophy until the FA Cup last season.

Pires does not think Wenger needs to call time on his spell in north London yet, but feels either the legendary striker or Real Madrid manager would be perfect candidates to replace him.

When asked by waploaded if Wenger could leave Arsenal soon, Pires said: "Not this time. Beside that, Wenger still has a contract with Arsenal.

"Who is the perfect replacement? Thierry Henry? He understands football and Arsenal. I don't know, but I like Carlo Ancelotti. But that's my opinion, it doesn't mean that Arsenal need Ancelotti at this time."

Wenger has long been criticised for failing to strengthen his squad, particularly in defence following the exit of Thomas Vermaelen in the summer.

However, the club are expected to complete the signing of Villarreal centre-back Gabriel Paulista on Monday and Pires has backed his former manager's moves in the transfer window.

He added: "I wouldn't say Arsenal have made any mistakes in transfer market. If you play for Arsenal, it means that you have some quality. Among them are really great players.
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"To me, Arsenal's best signing is Santi Cazorla. Fans love Alexis Sanchez, and so do I; he's quick to adapt to the Premier League - but Cazorla is so important. For the last few months, he's been our best player."
When asked if fellow Frenchman Alexandre Lacazette, who has scored 21 goals in 22 Ligue 1 appearances for Lyon this season, could join Arsenal, Pires added: "Why not? His characteristic style of play will suit Arsenal.
"Although he doesn't have big posture, he's quick, can dribble, and has great skill. He also scores many goals. Perhaps he will be an Arsenal best buy in the future."