Amid turbulence, stoic Wenger has answers
Ian Kington/AFP/Getty ImagesArsene Wenger's answers aren't always what supporters want to hear.One of the things I most admire about Arsene Wenger is how he deals with the English media. People make jokes about his eyesight as when asked about key incidents, often Wenger’s response is "I didn't see it."
While many of Wenger's news conferences and post-match interviews can frustrate fans, it's important to note he is often merely protecting his players. Also, while the answers might not be what fans want to hear, Wenger always respects the questions and, whenever possible, answers.
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One of my favourite things before a game is to watch back Wenger’s news conference. Every time, there is a man sitting there who looks determined and still has an unwavering belief in his team, his methods and his footballing ethos. Over the past few weeks he has taken a fair few hits from the media, and a few from fans, yet he still remains defiant and sticks to his way of doing things. There’s also a man who knows how the English media work and can give them enough quotes to go off with, while still withholding important things about his players.
His news conference this week before the Everton match was no different. Wenger was questioned on a number of topics, ranging from Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott’s contracts to Joey Barton’s French accent. While some answers were monosyllabic, Wenger still responded to every question. He always gives the journalists respect, even when occasionally some don’t offer him much back.
He was asked again about some fan revolt following the substitution of Olivier Giroud in last Saturday's 0-0 draw at Aston Villa. While there might be the hope that there’s a great story of Wenger slagging off supporters for criticising him, Wenger is smart enough to know that when the club are struggling, unity is key.
While this has already felt like a turbulent season with excellent, good and frankly dismal performances from Arsenal, every week I feel somewhat lifted by what Wenger says to the media, and the way he goes about it. Whilst remaining calm, there is a bullish side to Wenger that occasionally springs up and reminds you that he still has the drive and the passion to move Arsenal forward.
For example, when questioned about his good record at Goodison Park and how he’s rarely lost there, Wenger replied "I would like to remind you that we never lose often, in any year, in 16 years I have been here.” He could be criticised for accepting a few losses as being good enough when the club should be striving to not lose any games, yet I believe that such a statement reinforces his awareness of where Arsenal should be.
He knows the club aren’t in as good a position as previously under his management -- no one needs to tell him that. He is merely reminding people that Arsenal are still a top club, and he is still worth believing in as manager because of his consistency.
I disagree with some substitutions Wenger has made, and some of the players he has signed, however, I doubt there's any other manager who could be in charge of Arsenal and conduct themselves in the impressive way that Wenger does. There are areas where his style should be more flexible in the modern game, but fans who believe that he alone is the sole problem for Arsenal’s indifferent season need to look at the wider picture.
Wenger is striving toward the same goals as supporters; he is pained when Arsenal lose. The difference for Wenger is that after a defeat, he has to face a gabble of media outlets and try to rationalise his thoughts. More often than not, he’s able to do so.
Ultimately, the only answers fans care about from Wenger are what happens on the pitch. However, the way he presents himself gives me belief that things will get better, although whether that happens remains to be seen.


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