Former Arsenal Star Recalls Arsene Wenger's Uncharacteristic Outburst
Henri Lansbury, the former Arsenal midfielder, has provided a rare glimpse into the character of legendary Gunners manager Arsene Wenger, revealing that he only ever witnessed the Frenchman lose his cool with one player during his time at the club. Lansbury, who came through Arsenal's youth ranks, described Wenger as typically composed and supportive, but shared a memorable incident involving striker Nicklas Bendtner that showed a different side to the iconic boss.
Lansbury's Fond Memories of Wenger's Management Style
Speaking on the In The Mixer podcast, brought to you by Sky Bet, Lansbury reflected warmly on his interactions with Wenger during his early career at Arsenal. "He was brilliant with me," Lansbury explained. "Every time I wanted to go on loan or go and play games, he was like, 'Go out.' Then at the end of the season, I'd come back and obviously the Championship finishes a bit earlier. And he'd put me straight back in the first team and put me on the bench and then give me a few minutes here and there."
The 35-year-old, who retired in 2023 after spells with Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Bristol City, and Luton Town, also discussed his decision to leave Arsenal permanently in 2012. "When I did decide to leave, I had a chat with him," Lansbury recalled. "He was like, 'I want you to stay about but I can't guarantee you game time.' I was like, 'I just want game time.' He was like, 'All right, well go, all the best and I'll see you in the future.'"
The Rare Moment Wenger Lost His Temper
Despite Wenger's generally calm demeanor, Lansbury highlighted one particular incident that stood out. "I think I only saw him lose his s**t one time," Lansbury revealed. "That was Burnley away. It was with Nicklas Bendtner. I think we were just like, not really longing it off, but just weren't doing stuff. He went mad. I was like, 'Oh my God, he can actually lose it as well.'"
This outburst was particularly striking given Wenger's reputation for maintaining composure under pressure. Lansbury described the manager's usual aura as impressive, noting how young players would react when encountering him. "It was just his whole aura. When he comes out on the training pitch and he's doing his little kick-ups. Honestly, it's brilliant. And then when you're young and you go in the first team dressing room, you see him, you're like... It wasn't fear," he explained.
Wenger's Legacy in Premier League History
When asked about Wenger's place among the greatest Premier League managers of all time, Lansbury acknowledged his former boss's significant achievements while suggesting that Pep Guardiola has since surpassed his legacy. "That's a tough one," Lansbury said. "I think he [Wenger] is up there. But for me, now I think Pep has blown everyone out of the water."
Lansbury's insights offer a unique perspective on Wenger's management style, blending admiration for his supportive approach with the revelation of a rare moment of frustration directed at Bendtner. These recollections contribute to the ongoing discussion about Wenger's impact on Arsenal and English football, highlighting both his legendary status and his human moments of imperfection.
