In somewhat vaguely Arsenal related, but not really but also kinda, news – reports suggest that former Gunner Patrick Vieira is set to take over as manager of New York FC in MLS.
The move was hinted at by journalist Grant Wahl in his Sports Illustrated column. Leaving aside his fashion insider type stuff, he knows his US soccer onions, and it would be an interesting move and one that makes sense given the affiliation between New York FC and Man City where Vieira is the ‘elite development squad manager’ (ie – reserves manager).
Vieira had been linked with the job at Sunderland during the summer but Guus Hiddink Dick Advocaat (thanks!) was convinced to return until his tearful exit earlier this month.
The Frenchman played 406 games for the Gunners between 1996 and 2005, and has been on the books at Man City since he retired from playing.
Nevertheless, there’s Invincible input at the Arsenal training ground these days with Robert Pires a regular, and dreamy, fixture during sessions, while Thierry Henry is currently doing his coaching badges working with the youths and having a real influence.
As two goal Alex Iwobi spoke about after the 2-0 underage win over Bayern Munich in midweek, “Other coaches I have had have all played football but no disrespect to them, I have never had anyone like Thierry. I am basically learning from the best.”
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Read Amy Lawrence’s insightful piece into Henry and the Arsenal youth set-up here.
I fear Gus Hiddink has invaded your dreams.
Great piece by Amy Lawrence, Thierry is putting in the graft and helping to get results.
Henry also helping to push back on the anti-Arsenal punditry!
Occasionally.
Have litte to no time for Vierra. He can’t be controlled, even by the Mansours after he very quickly sold his soul to them.
What was that about Iwobi and Henry?
Underage team?
Vieira why did you go to Man City dude. Wtf.
Because Wenger did not give him a call to beg him for coming to Arsenal. Prima Donna Vieira was so disappointed. That being said, no other player in PL has reached his level of leadership.
How can anyone criticize Pat after all he’s done for the club. He can do whatever he wants and i’ll be ok with it. Absolute legend for the Arsenal.
Oi can we just get City and their shitty franchise clubs to fuck off?
Sign up ol’ Patty as a Personal Coq Coach, I reckon!
Am done hearing about this guy.
Would rather have a slow news day and no stories than a Viera story.
I can’t describe how much it breaks my heart to see him still not a part of the Arsenal.
I don.t really get tje anti-Vieira sentiment. He was immense for us, understandably considered Madrid a few times but stayed, and then we sold him bcos we were skint. Who gives a fuck that he is reserve team coach at man city? Hardly being disloyal is it