ARSENAL chief Vinai Venkatesham recently visited Arsene Wenger over a return to Emirates Stadium.
But the talks were reportedly centred around attending a tribute, rather than coming back as manager.
Wenger left Arsenal under a cloud in 2018Credit: Getty Images – Getty
Wenger, 71, stepped down in 2018, after 22 years at the helm.
And insiders claim that there is a ‘bitterness’ between the Frenchman and the club, regarding the way his tenure fizzled out.
According to the Mail, Venkatesham sought to assure Wenger that he is always welcome at the Emirates.
But Mail sources revealed that the Frenchman doesn’t plan on ever returning, while the current owners remain in place.
One Gunners employee told them: “He’ll never go back. That’s how badly let down he feels he was by the board.”
While another of Wenger’s former colleagues admitted: “Contrary to what people may think, it didn’t end well. And he didn’t feel it ended well.
“He felt he deserved better. And he did deserve better.
“When Peter Hill-Wood died, he should have been made chairman. They had to keep him. You don’t lose someone who has his ability, expertise, intelligence and honesty.”
Vinai Venkatesham has met with Wenger to reiterate that he is welcome back at the EmiratesCredit: Reuters
Wenger became an iconic figure during his spell in North London, lifting three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups – while also reaching the Champions League final in 2006.
But his departure came amid supporter unrest and a league title drought of 14 years.
Figures at Arsenal still believe that it is integral to ‘honour’ him in the ‘right way’, with a tribute planned for 2021.
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Arsene Wenger led Arsenal to their historic ‘Invincibles’ success in 2004Credit: PA:Press Association
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
