Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has received strong backing to become the next manager of the North London club, with former France and Manchester United striker Louis Saha openly expressing belief that Henry is ready to succeed Mikel Arteta when the time comes
ARTETA’S JOURNEY SO FAR
Since taking over Arsenal in December 2019 Mikel Arteta has reshaped the team and delivered a more structured style of play highlighted by his FA Cup triumph in his first season The Gunners have grown into serious title contenders but have finished second in the Premier League for three straight seasons
Despite visible progress a portion of the fanbase is becoming impatient over the absence of major silverware since that 2020 FA Cup victory leaving some to wonder if a change in leadership might be what Arsenal needs to finally lift the trophy
HENRY’S ARSENAL LEGACY
Thierry Henry remains one of the most iconic players in Arsenal’s modern history Between 1999 and 2007 and during a brief return in 2012 he featured in 377 games scored 228 goals and recorded 101 assists He was instrumental in winning two Premier League titles and three FA Cups under Arsène Wenger and even came close to the Ballon d’Or in 2003 finishing second
This legendary status has kept his name in the conversation any time discussions arise about future managerial candidates for Arsenal
SAHA BACKS HENRY’S RETURN
Louis Saha who shared the national team dressing room with Henry believes his former teammate has matured enough in his coaching journey to lead a Premier League team especially Arsenal
“I would like to see Thierry Henry manage in the Premier League and I think he deserves it He loves football so much and lots of other coaches have got opportunities when he hasn’t
Some guys retire and get big Premier League jobs and I don’t always understand it I think Thierry should get an opportunity and he has experience now He has improved as a manager and did really well with the French under 21s despite not lifting the trophy in the end His knowledge is unbelievable and it would be great to see him managing Arsenal one day”
THE COACHING JOURNEY SO FAR
Henry’s post-playing career as a coach has seen its ups and downs He started with AS Monaco where results didn’t go his way before taking charge of CF Montreal in Major League Soccer He also worked as an assistant coach for the Belgian national team and later served as head coach of France’s U21 and Olympic teams Though he didn’t win a trophy with the youth sides his contributions were widely appreciated
WHAT’S NEXT
While Mikel Arteta’s position remains strong especially with Arsenal continuing to challenge for major honours discussions about a potential successor are beginning to surface With Henry’s deep ties to the club and growing coaching résumé his name is likely to stay relevant whenever the job becomes available.
