FORMER Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal has revealed that legendary boss Arsene Wenger “suffered” in his last few years at the club.
called time on his 22-year spell in North London in 2018 after missing out on a place in the for the second consecutive season.
Arsene Wenger ‘suffered’ in his final few years at Arsenal due to fan unrest and pressureCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Former Arsenal full-back Nacho Monreal admitted the negativity had an impact on his physical healthCredit: Getty – Contributor
Fans had been divided on whether he should stay or step down, with some protesting his position.
And former star has now claimed that such conflict had a huge impact on the Frenchman.
The 39-year-old told Ladbrokes at the launch of Ladisfaction: “Arsene leaving the club was of course a sad moment for us, because I knew he was suffering a lot.
“Before he was sacked, there was a period where there was a real split between supporters, which was crazy.
“I can literally remember, as a player, seeing banners on one side of the stadium saying ‘Wenger Out’, and then banners on the other side saying ‘Wenger In’.
“It was a tough period for me as a player, especially at a club where I felt like we were all a big family… the fans were completely split.
“I can remember seeing Arsene at the training ground around that time and he was suffering a lot.
“He lost weight; you know, he was pretty skinny anyway, but I remember seeing him one day and really noticing it.
“It got to a point where he’d even stopped enjoying our wins, because the atmosphere around the place just wasn’t good.
“So, once it got to that point, as players we knew that there would be an announcement coming fairly soon. And when that day arrived, of course, we were all in shock, even though we had a feeling something might happen.
“But the thought of there being such a big change around the place was a shock to us all.
“We’re talking about somebody who had a say on pretty much everything to do with the club, so this was going to be a complete reset.
“He was the person who signed players, negotiated contracts, planned for pre-season… he did everything… completely everything.
“Yes, he had a few people who helped him, but ultimately he was in charge of everything. No one really knew what the future was going to look like.
“Of course, what came afterwards was even more challenging for the club, but I always like to think I gave my best for the team.
“I knew I wasn’t the best player within the squad, and I was aware of my role and my place… I’d like to think I was a very consistent player, even in the difficult times.
“So while some of the top, top players within the team maybe had some especially good games and moments, but were quiet in others, I’d like to think I was always at a consistent level when it came to my performances.”
Wenger managed 1234 games for Arsenal, recording 715 wins.
During that time he won three titles and seven FA Cups.
He is still the only manager in Prem history to lead a team through an entire season unbeaten.
The Gunners with 26 wins and 12 draws.
