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Arsene Wenger finally returned to the Emirates Stadium on Boxing Day and witnessed Arsenal extend their lead to seven points at the top of the Premier League table with a 3-1 victory over West Ham.
Wenger, one of the Premier League’s greatest ever managers who led Arsenal to three leagues titles during his 22-year spell with the Gunners, hadn’t visited the Emirates since his departure in 2018.
Asked about his decision to stay away from the club during a Q&A with BBC Sport in October 2020, Wenger said: “I have chosen to keep a complete distance. It doesn’t mean emotionally, just physically. It’s important people don’t see you as a shadow. It may look like you’re still trying to influence things and have your way. I felt that the best thing to do is cut it away.”
But Arsenal fans were delighted to see the Frenchman back at the club’s home stadium on Boxing Day, four-and-a-half years since stepping down as the club’s manager.
Wenger watched on as Arsenal came from behind to secure a 3-1 win thanks to goals from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah.
While we still haven’t reached the halfway point in the season due to the recent World Cup in Qatar, Mikel Arteta’s side certainly look the part and will now have their sights set on ending the club’s long wait for a Premier League title.
Arsenal haven’t lifted the Premier League trophy since Wenger’s Invincibles made history in 2004.
Video: Arsene Wenger reacts to Arsenal fans’ chants
There was a beautiful moment in the second half of Arsenal’s clash against West Ham where Wenger received a rendition of “There’s only one Arsene Wenger” from the home crowd.
Check out the 73-year-old’s reaction here:
Lovely stuff.
Here’s how Arsenal fans on social media have reacted:
Video: Wenger reacts to Martinelli’s goal
Wenger’s name was chanted by the Arsenal fans after he appeared celebrating Martinelli’s goal on the big screen inside the Emirates.
Check out Wenger’s goal celebration here:
What did Arteta say about Wenger’s return to Arsenal?
Whether you’re a fan of Arsenal or not, it’s great to see Wenger back home and enjoying the impressive football Arteta’s side are currently producing.
“Arsene picked the right moment,” Arteta said in his post-match press conference, per the Daily Mail. “I thought the performance today was at the level he deserved.
“The players didn’t know. It was a special day, so thank you so much [to Arsene] for coming. Walking through stadium he’s going to feel what everyone thinks of him…he’s been such an influence.”
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Source:Give me Sports