Arsene Wenger’s pre-match news conference on Thursday ahead of the away game to Watford was full of memorable quotes about Arsenal’s present & its future, as was the AGM he attended – a reminder to all that the Frenchman is still on top of his game at the grand old age of 65 and being at the club for close to two decades.
Answering questions regarding player purchases (or otherwise) and a perceived “lack of ambition”, Wenger responded that the club are not afraid to spend big.
We are not scared to spend money.
I know I have that reputation, but success is talent and cohesion.
He made it clear that Arsenal are no longer shirking away from staking a claim at major titles and backed it up in ways which should please the most ardent of doubters.
We are back in contention for the Championship this year & we will fight, our numbers show it.
We have taken more points since January than anyone. The trend is right and shows consistency.
The Gunners boss believes that the club is moving in the right direction and that he wants to lead the north London giants to the next level – rather than resting on past laurels.
We want more than to finish third and win the FA Cup. We have potential to do more.
I’m more motivated and committed than ever.
Wenger once again demonstrated his unparalleled vision of the bigger picture & the relentless commitment to stability & prosperity for the Gunners.
I’m committed to big success to the last day.
I want to leave the club in a top shape for the guy that comes after me.
Ivan Gazidis chipped in with some equally quote-worthy statements of his own later on, first by highlighting Arsenal’s constant quest for evolution – with London Colney, Hale End & the Player Centre undergoing a major, multi-million-pound upgrade.
Both Arsene & Ivan have always maintained seeking “internal solutions” is just as important as spending excessively.
We won’t be successful in a never-ending arms race by outspending our opponents. We won’t spend money or waste it just to appease commentators.
Ivan proved the board’s commitment to Wenger’s demands as well as highlighting the Frenchman’s unquestionable draw in today’s footballing world.
[Mesut] Ozil, [Alexis] Sanchez and [Petr] Cech show how the board will release funds for signings at any point. We want to build them, not simply buy them.
