The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger reveals 35-year managerial career is down to 'luck'
Frenchman has been in charge with the Gunners since September 1996
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Arsene Wenger has said that his long career as a top-flight football manager boils down to one thing - luck.
The 65-year-old Frenchman has been in management for 35 years, almost 19 of those in charge in north London with Arsenal, where he took over in September 1996.
Wenger, who won the sixth FA Cup of his career last season and has also won two League titles with Arsenal, revealed the secret to his success.
"If you consider the average lifespan of a manager is 12 months, then I was so lucky to have 35 years so far. So I push on," he told the Arsenal webiste.
While Wenger realises he cannot continue as manager forever, it is not quite yet time to call it a day.
"I am not naive enough to believe I will be forever on a football pitch! At some stage I will have to do something different," he added.
"But as long as I can, I want to be on the pitch. That’s where I’m happy, that’s where I get my satisfaction, that’s where I feel I can be useful."
Wenger also said that the most rewarding part of his job is finding young players and seeing them develop.
"I love football and I love to try to help the players to be better. I love as well that players feel they can become a better player at this club. I think that’s an important part of the job.
"I started at the age of 31, now I am 65 and I've never stopped. Never, not for a day. So I have spent 34 years on the pitches every day. It has been my life and it will be my life as long as I can do it."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments