Jeremie Aliadiere says Arsene Wenger is both the best coach and the best man manager he’s ever had, after the Frenchman offered him a chance to train at London Colney.
Aliadiere first broke into senior professional football with Arsenal. He spent two years with the academy and a further six with the first team, before eventually leaving for Middlesbrough. Most recently, he played for Lorient in Ligue 1, but when they were relegated he moved back to London.
At that point the 34-year-old decided to meet up with his former manager.
He told Goal that they had a good talk and watched some football together.
Despite how long it had been since they were last in contact, Wenger was happy to offer him the chance to come back and train at London Colney.
“I’ve never really been in touch since I left Arsenal or talking to him on a regular basis,” Aliadiere explained. “After the game [against Everton] I went to his office in the stadium and spoke for a few hours, watching football and chatting about the old days, my new life and family.
“He said to me ‘you’re welcome to come to London Colney anytime you want, to train or do whatever’. Now that I’m back in the UK and living here I’ll probably go there and keep touch with him.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=id0SxYCA2v8
Clearly Aliadiere’s time with the manager was very positive, both as a player and now as his career winds down. He gushed over the way Wenger treats his players, and how the boss helps them reach their potential.
“He’s the best coach and manager [I’ve ever had],” the striker said. “Some people are really good coaches but not very good man managers but he’s an all rounder. He knows how to treat his players and get the best out of them.”
It’s good to hear Wenger’s former players still have positive things to say about the manager. Particularly in the case of people like Aliadiere, who never really found their stride in North London. Evidently he doesn’t blame the 68-year-old for that. Hopefully they continue to have a positive and productive relationship.