Arsenal disappointed me – Vieira

Forum 7 years ago

Arsenal disappointed me – Vieira

New York City FC coach, Patrick Vieira, has expressed his disappointment that he was not given an opportunity, to begin his managerial career with former club, Arsenal.

The former France international spent nine years with Arsenal and eventually joined Manchester City towards the end of his playing career.

Vieira became involved with City’s coaching set-up, as the Gunners offered him no invitation.

He has now moved on to another City Football Group project in New York City, but Vieira says he would have loved a chance with Arsenal.

He told RMC: “It’s true that after spending nine years at Arsenal, it’s the club of my heart – the one where I played my best football – I would have liked if the door was more open to me or other players who spent time there and who would have wanted to learn their career as a coach.

“Unfortunately, that’s not the case. I was lucky to arrive at Manchester City at the right moment, but it’s true that it leaves a little disappointment with regards to Arsenal.

“I don’t think that [myself, Thierry Henry or others] have the ambition to claim the spotlight at Arsenal, because it’s not possible. Things must be done naturally.

“I don’t know the demands of everyone, but in my case I just expected a call to ask me if I would go and learn my craft at Arsenal – without taking the place of the U21 or U19 coach, because they are good at their job.

“I’ve never spoken [with Wenger]. At the same time, he does want he wants.”