But with Wenger confirming on Friday that he will leave his post as Arsenal manager after 22 years at the helm, the eventual victory lifted the mood and gave renewed hope of a successful end to the Frenchman’s reign.
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The 68-year-old Wenger refused to say whether he would take any more managing roles. He’s dedicated to his job, he’s been dedicated to his sport and he’s a real proper football man.
Arsene Wenger has hinted that Arsenal’s worldwide perception was being harmed by his continued presence at the club, but insisted he wasn’t “resentful” of the way the club’s fans have acted in recent years.
Whether it was down to Arsene Wenger’s decision or not, the Gunners did not start this match well.
“I have accumulated a knowledge and history for this club”.
Hart had previously kept West Ham in the match with diving saves from Xhaka and Danny Welbeck but Arsenal climbed within six points of fifth-placed Chelsea on 57 while West Ham remain in relegation trouble six points above the drop zone on 35.
Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal farewell started in the ideal manner as the Gunners scored three goals in seven second-half minutes to ease to victory against West Ham at the Emirates.
West Ham carved out a couple chances of their own with Joao Mario and Marko Arnautovic forcing goalkeeper David Ospina into two good saves.
Rumours will continue to gather momentum regarding who will replace the division’s longest-serving boss, but that person will follow in the footsteps of one of football’s most exceptional managerial talents, who received the acclaim of the fan base after the hosts’ late rally.
“We wanted to win and I told the players, “Listen, we know it’s a hard game because they have very good players and they are doing well, but if we do things in the same way, we can beat anyone”.
Monreal broke the deadlock, volleying in corner in the 51 minute but Arnautovic drew West Ham level by finishing off Manuel Lanzini’s pass in the 64 minute.
Ashley Barnes’ second half strike earned Burnley a point.
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Without further ado, here are my Arsenal player ratings vs West Ham.
