Wenger agrees new Arsenal deal
Thursday, December 6, 2001
Article summary
Arsène Wenger has signed a four-year extension to his current Arsenal FC contract, ending months of speculation about his future at the club.
Article body
Sixth season
The new deal means Wenger, who is in his sixth season at Highbury stadium, will remain in charge of the club until 2005. The Frenchman, who had just six months remaining on previous contract, said: "I decided to stay because I have a group of players I respect and admire and I think there is a lot of potential to bring this club to where I want it to be. All of the young players have longer contracts. The experienced players have a key part to play - in all, I think 99 per cent of the players will stay."
Early success
The 52-year-old Wenger joined Arsenal in September 1996 and guided the London club to an FA Premiership and FA Cup double in 1997/98, after which he signed a three-and-a-half-year deal. However, Wenger's delay in signing a further extension had prompted questions about his future.
Wenger tempted
Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood admitted Wenger had been tempted by offers from other major clubs. He said: "It is no secret that we have been approached by many leading European clubs concerning Arsène's services."
Recent victories
But, on the back of victories over Manchester United FC in the Premiership and Juventus FC in the UEFA Champions League, Wenger finally pledged his future to the London club. "We are obviously delighted that he has shown faith in Arsenal Football Club," said Hill-Wood.