Arsenal legend Ray Parlour tips Diego Simeone to succeed Arsene Wenger as French boss hints at exit
Gunners legend reckons Atletico Madrid manager is the favourite to replace the Frenchman at the Emirates
RAY PARLOUR reckons Diego Simeone is the best man to succeed Arsene Wenger.
The Arsenal boss, 66, hinted he could end his 20-year Emirates career at the end of the season.
Gunners legend Parlour, 43, when asked who could replace him, said: "The favourite would be Simeone.
"He demands out of his players and he's a bit more defensive minded. But he is Atletico Madrid manager.
"It's a situation where you don't know. Who's available? Who's available at that time of their reign?
"You've always got to assess the situation that season.
"It won't be easy to find a new manager because the Guardiolas and the Mourinhos have long-term contracts now.
"Ronald Koeman would have been a good spot but Everton have got him now which is great for them. They should do well.
"But Simeone is always mentioned."
Wenger is under more pressure than ever this season as his 12-year Premier League title wait goes on.
Manchester United and Manchester City have spent a mammoth combined total of £318.6MILLION on new signings this summer.
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Whereas Wenger has splashed out £38.5m on one first-team star and three fringe players.
And Parlour, who played under the Frenchman for eight years, says it is the fans who the long-standing Arsenal gaffer must please, NOT the board.
He added: "The fans want silverware. If we start losing games the fans will be on their backs asking 'where are the signings? Why didn't we strengthen?'
"There's probably not so much pressure from the board but the fans are demanding performances.
"But that's why he's a top manager - because he can deal with pressure."
Parlour admits the best way to reclaim the title - and keep supporters on board - is by signing players.
Deals for Alexandre Lacazette and Shkodran Mustafi are reportedly in the pipeline.
Parlour said: "If he can get those sort of players in it would give him a much better chance of doing well this season.
"He knows that and I'm sure he will be working hard to get it done."
Ray Parlour has gone head to head with poker star Chris Moorman in the premier league predictions.