Arsene Wenger Admits 22 Years at Arsenal Was His Biggest Regret
In a surprisingly candid interview with the French radio station RTL, former Arsenal head‑coach Arsene Wenger openly confessed that his long‑standing tenure at the club might have been the biggest mistake of his career.
Why Ten Years of “Success” Feels Like a Mistake
- Staying Too Long: Wenger says his 22‑year stay, nothing short of “the biggest mistake,” was a testament to his love of new challenges—but that passion turned into a kind of cage.
- Loss of Balance: “I’m a person who loves change and challenges,” he told RTL, “but I turned myself into a prisoner of that challenge.”
- The Personal Cost: The bench drilled him into a routine that left a harsh toll on his personal life.
Having to Give Up Family and Friends
Wenger’s heart sank as he admitted all the sacrifices he made: “I regret having sacrificed everything I did because I realise I’ve hurt a lot of people around me.” He lamented how his relentless focus on the pitch caused him to neglect his family and close friends.
“I’ve neglected a lot of people,” he confessed, “and I’ve neglected my family. Deep down, I’m a selfish obsessive when chasing my love of the game.”
Future Plans: Will He Stay or Go?
In the interview, Wenger stated he will decide his next move in the “next few months,” implying a potential return to the coaching world—or perhaps a new adventure outside of football.
What About His Former Players?
When asked about ex‑Arsenal stars Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira, both of whom are now chasing their own coaching careers, Wenger remained upbeat.
- Henry: Now a coach in the Belgium national team’s backroom staff, Henry left his punditry job at Sky Sports to focus on becoming a manager.
- Vieira: Turned to the Ligue 1 side Nice as head coach.
- Wenger praised both for their intelligence, football knowledge, and skill set, but warned of the inevitable sacrifices.
“It’s an Obsession That Bounces Around Your Head Day and Night.”
Wenger was honest: “They have all the qualities – they are intelligent and skilled – but will they be willing to sacrifice all that they need to do only that? It’s an obsession that sticks with them.”
With these remarks, the ex‑Arsenal legend turned his own career downwards tips into an honest reflection on what it takes to chase greatness—losing the most prized goodness that people can get away with.
