‘I Will Miss You’- Arsene Wenger Tells Arsenal Fans As He Says Goodbye From The Emirates Stadium

Arsene Wenger said his farewell to Emirates Stadium with a thrashing of Burnley to leave in the same way it all began for him as Arsenal manager 7,876 days ago – with victory.

In a season of discontent and occasional open rebellion, this was a day for a united front to celebrate the career of the manager who has brought so much success and style to Arsenal since starting his reign with that 2-0 win at Ewood Park in 1996.

And in a campaign of disappointment that will now be viewed as the end of an era, the last hope of success snuffed out by the Europa League semi-final loss to Atletico Madrid, Wenger at least got the home send-off he so deserved – with a stylish win over Burnley.

The Clarets, who have a wonderful story of their own this season, were outclassed as Arsenal ran out 5-0 winners to give Wenger his 475th win in 826 Premier League games.

This was not the time to celebrate a single victory but to reflect on all the triumphs and pleasure Wenger has brought to Arsenal in almost 22 years, and everyone played their parts perfectly on and off the pitch. The differences of this season were set aside as the good and the great of Wenger’s reign came into sharp focus.

The Emirates was draped in tributes to Wenger, with giant “Merci Arsene” banners outside the ground, while 60,000 red T-shirts bearing the same slogan and the date were placed on every seat.

Wenger, who is clearly departing with reluctance with 12 months still to run on his contract, made his entrance through a guard of honour formed by Arsenal and Burnley players, along with their manager Sean Dyche.

As he made his way towards the centre circle, huge applause reverberated around the arena that can stand as a monument to his footballing wisdom and financial expertise in the transfer market.

Thierry Herny Speaks After Arsene Wenger’s Final Match At The Emirates

Arsenal record goalscorer, Thierry Henry, has said it is going to be “difficult” for Arsene Wenger, after his final game in charge at the Emirates.

Wenger led the Gunners to three Premier League titles, two while Henry was at the club.

He also won seven FA Cups during his time in North London.

Henry told Sky Sports that his compatriot would take some time to adjust to life after spending 22 years at Arsenal.

“He was there from 7.30am until 6 or 7 at night, watching games and loving the club. It’s going to be difficult for someone doing something for so long with the club he loves to just leave.

“It’s not an easy thing to just call a day. He loves to be on the grass, smelling grass, he has a vision and he’s a visionary. He always thinks his team can achieve things and thinks his team can achieve what he wants.

“Whether you agree or disagree, he goes to that extent to believe that. We met the expectations in our generation and a bit before.

“At times, he had that belief in that team which unfortunately didn’t meet the expectation in the league. I can only say one thing about him, and that’s thank you.

“The man he was for me. He was a father figure, he helped me to become a better player, unlocked stuff in my brain that was sometimes stopping myself, things that are obvious but at 22 you’re trying to find out the player you can be,” Henry said.