Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed that Arsene Wenger’s return to the Emirates Stadium for the Boxing Day victory over West Ham was kept secret from his players.
Speaking after the 3 -1 win on December 26, Arteta noted that the players' performance made Wenger proud.
The Gunners' coach also revealed that Arsenal Owners Stan Kroenke and his son Josh Kroenke were present at the stadium.
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“The players didn’t know. We wanted to keep it quiet and allow that space for Arsene. Stan and Josh are here as well and it was a really special day,” Arteta noted.
Wenger made his return to the Emirates stadium for the first time since leaving in 2018 having spent 22 years at the club and winning three league titles in the process.
The French retired manager currently works as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development.
Arteta also thanked Wenger for attending the match adding that the former Arsenal manager left a good legacy at the club.
During the match, Arsenal fans broke into songs praising their former manager who appreciated the gesture by waving to the jubilant crowd.
Arteta reiterated his long-term wish for the former boss to spend more time with the team because of his influence on the club.
He added that Wenger has had a big influence on him personally in his career and the way he views the game.
Arsenal was the only home team to win a match on Boxing Day further galvanizing their position at the summit with 40 points, 7 clear of second-placed Newcastle.