Report: ‘Foolish’ to rule out Newcastle approach for manager Ferguson dubbed ‘one of the greatest’

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Reports by The Telegraph claim it would be ‘foolish’ to rule out Newcastle United targeting Arsene Wenger as their next manager following Thursday’s Saudi-led takeover of the club.

Mike Ashley’s 14-years at St James’ Park came to an end after selling his shares in the Toon. The Premier League approved the £305m buyout by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the Reuben brothers and Amanda Staveley after receiving assurances of Saudi’s role.

Staveley revealed following confirmation of the takeover that she had spoken with current Newcastle manager Steve Bruce. PIF, Staveley and the Reuben brothers have not made a final decision on his position, but his future is uncertain.

Several managers are in contention to replace Bruce at Newcastle following the Saudi-led takeover if they do make a change. Sky Sports also note the Magpies’ new hierarchy will replace Bruce, but a decision on when has yet been made.

Wenger is one of several potential new managers Newcastle could explore to replace Bruce following their dire start this season. The Toon are 19th in the Premier League table after seven winless games, only above Norwich City on draws with three to seven taken so far.

Wenger currently works for UEFA as Director of Development, a role he took in November 2019. He has not held a managerial position since leaving Arsenal at the end of the 2017/18 season. The Frenchman spent 22-years in north London, overseeing a total of 1,224 games.

Should Newcastle target Wenger as next manager following takeover?

The Telegraph claim Wenger is an option to become the next Newcastle manager following their takeover, if they fire Bruce. They describe chances of the 71-year-old returning to a full-time coaching position as ‘foolish to rule it out’.

Wenger would be a wise choice as he could help PIF et al develop other areas of the club. Such as the academy structure, an area that Staveley told ITV in July they would invest in.

The veteran tactician also earned respect from all corners during his lengthy spell in charge at Arsenal. Iconic Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told Sky Sports: “He is, without doubt, one of the greatest Premier League managers and I am proud to have been a rival, a colleague and a friend to such a great man.”