Former Arsenal player, Paul Merson, has said that Arsene Wenger will spend another year as manager of the club, before he hands over to former captain, Patrick Vieira.
Wenger’s current deal expires at the end of this season and the 67-year-old is under pressure from aggrieved fans to step down.
But Merson feels he will sign a one-year extension and try to go out on a high.
“My instincts tell me he’s [Wenger] going to sign and he’s waiting for a big win and he’ll sign for another year,” Merson told Sky Sports.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he stays a year and then Patrick Vieira comes in.”
When asked whether Vieira would be a suitable candidate for such a big job, Merson added: “Yes. He’s learning his trade over at New York City, he’s been at Man City, and he brings a winning mentality, he won’t take any rubbish.
“Arsenal look too nice at the moment. I think that could happen and the fans would love that.
“The players don’t seem like they’re working that hard for the manager at the moment, which is sad.
“Whoever comes in it’s going to be a step-up – it’s a big, big football club but I don’t see a problem.
“He’s a legend, which gives you some leeway. I just think he’ll get his team playing the way he played the game, which is what they need at the moment.”
