Vieira and Bergkamp a really good combination for Arsenal - Campbell

Ryan Benson

Vieira and Bergkamp a really good combination for Arsenal - Campbell image

Arsenal greats Patrick Vieira and Dennis Bergkamp could be a "really good combination" in charge of the club's first team when Arsene Wenger departs, according to their former team-mate Sol Campbell.

Wenger announced on Friday last week that he has decided to step down after 22 years at the helm when the season ends.

The Frenchman has overseen one of the most successful periods in the club's history, having guided them to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups.

Speculation began to suggest Arsenal were behind Wenger's announcement, as he still has a year remaining on his contract, though he himself hinted the atmosphere among the support caused him to make a decision.

And Campbell, who played under Wenger in two spells, has tipped Vieira and Bergkamp to take over as he feels it is important whoever comes in has a connection to the club.

Speaking to football.london, Campbell said: "I think they should see if they can promote from within. It could be someone who has played for the club and is managing now - or has aspirations of managing Arsenal and would love to take that opportunity.

"[Mikel] Arteta has gone to Manchester City and has gained fantastic experience, but for me, someone like Patrick [Vieira] would be perfect and he's great buddies with Dennis Bergkamp so for me, to have those two guys at the helm, I think that could be a really good combination.

"Bring guys who have done well for Arsenal back into the club. Otherwise, people like Carlo Ancelotti - unless he takes the Italy job - he could be a good fit. Then you've got [Massimiliano] Allegri and the Germany manager [Joachim] Low."

Vieira is currently in the final year of his contract with NYCFC and says he has not been contacted by Arsenal to replace his old boss Wenger.

"Honestly, and seriously, no," said Vieira.

He has not ruled out staying on with the Major League Soccer club, but is also flattered to be mentioned as a contender to take charge at the Emirates Stadium.

"Why not? I still have, of course, next year," he said. "It’s going to be my contract at least until the end of the season. And then after that anything can happen, but I have a contract until the end of the season."

"When your name is linked with big teams in Europe it’s good. That just shows that people are following what you’re doing and you’re doing a good job.

"I’m really pleased with that. What is important for me is to focus and concentrate about what I’m doing at the moment. My head and my mind and my energy is on how to win the next game."

Ryan Benson