Even though Arsenal have been criticised heavily following Robin Van Persie’s announcement that he is not to sign a new contract, Arsene Wenger claims that he has no intention of changing his principles in relation to transfers.
While the Gunners may not have won a trophy since 2005, Wenger says that he has no intention of ever spending big on established players and takes more satisfaction from encouraging young players.
In an interview, Wenger has claimed that his philosophies are identical to Dutch genius Johan Cruyft. The recipe for Cruyft’s success wasn’t splashing the cash, but instead investing in the youth system and Wenger claims he is an advocate of the same principles.
He said, “You want to see a player in his prime doing it for your club. But it does not work like that all the time. I am a victim of that. I lost Samir Nasri, Gael Clichy and Cesc Fabregas at an age where they should have been playing their best football for Arsenal. I could have left 10 times to join another club but I didn’t because I have worked with the same vision and philosophy at Arsenal for the last 16 years — and that won’t change.”
Unfortunately, while some may view Wenger’s opinion as refreshing, Arsenal fans are unlikely to agree. Nobody will differ from the view that it is always nice to see a young player develop, but Gunners supporters know that the chances of that player lifting a trophy at the Emirates Stadium are very low.
Following Van Persie’s decision to snub the offer of a new contract, pressure on the club is certainly growing. However, with Wenger seemingly on the same page as influential board members, it appears there is to be no shift in policy at the club and even if RVP is sold, there will be no major signing to replace him.