Yesterday, Frenchman Arsene Wenger became the longest-serving Arsenal manager having celebrated 13 years in charge of the North London Club, years during which he made sure Arsenal joined the elite of European football.

Speaking about how he joined the club, Wenger believes the board of management had to be “brave” in approaching him, adding he was a lucky man to find a nice atmosphere in London.

He said:

When you work abroad it is never easy because, frankly, they do not need you. It is difficult to put into context today because now every foreign manager arrives on a red carpet. It was not like that when I arrived.

They (Arsenal) needed to be, maybe not crazy, but certainly brave. However I believe I was lucky to find the support I found at Arsenal and that is always important for success.

I also believe we have the potential here for more success. We have a young team and they have a hunger and great spirit to do well.