Wenger nearing Arsenal Exit?

There could be a big story ready to erupt if recent betting patterns at WilliamHill are anything to go by. The firm slashed the odds on Arsene Wenger being next manager out the door twice on Friday - he’s currently a 6/1 shot, in from 10s at the start of the day. The Arsenal boss was as long as 50/1 in this market with StanJames a month ago.

The frenzy of activity may have been prompted by former club vice-chairman David Dein coming out in defence of his good friend and neighbour Wenger to the media. When asked if he thought the Frenchman could leave, he told BBC Sport: “That’s always an option open to him because it could come to a stage when he he will say, ‘Well, I have had enough.”

The comments come after Wenger was subjected to abuse by some Arsenal fans at St James’ Park last weekend. The longest serving manager in the club’s history, he arrived in 1996, is suddenly finding his judgement, especially on transfers, questioned openly for the first time. The departure of Fabregas, and most probably Nasri, have only added to the unrest.

Matters on the pitch could make the situation come to a head sooner rather than later. On Saturday Arsenal face a rejuvinated Liverpool side at the Emirates Stadium knowing that anything less than a win will leave the Gunners with ground to make up on the frontrunners already. Wednesday will see the second leg of the Champions League qualifier away to Udinese; the Italian outfit impressed in London and could yet pull off an upset from 1-0 down. To miss out on a spot in the premier European competition would be a crushing blow to Wenger. After that, Arsenal head to Old Trafford on the following Sunday.

It’s a massive week, and one which could determine the future of Arsene Wenger at Arsenal. He is still available at a best price of 10/1 with VictorChandler to be the next manager to leave his post in the Premier League.