Jump directly to the content
Vieira gets Arse-y

Arsenal legend and New York City boss Patrick Vieira names Arsene Wenger nemesis Jose Mourinho as his managerial inspiration

Relations between Arsene Wenger and his former captain have hit an all-time low

PATRICK VIEIRA'S relationship with former boss Arsene Wenger seems to have completely broken down.

Back in August, the former Arsenal captain hit out at Wenger for failing to invite more ex-Gunners onto his coaching staff at the Emirates.

 Vieira was a legend at Arsenal but has become a harsh critic of Arsene Wenger
4
Vieira was a legend at Arsenal but has become a harsh critic of Arsene WengerCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
 Wenger and Vieira celebrate winning the 2005 FA Cup
4
Wenger and Vieira celebrate winning the 2005 FA CupCredit: AP:Associated Press
 Jose Mourinho is Vieira's idol when it comes to management
4
Jose Mourinho is Vieira's idol when it comes to managementCredit: Getty Images

And now he has said that Wenger's arch rival Jose Mourinho impresses him more as a manager.

Vieira told France Football: “I’m inspired especially from those who have the same vision as me when it comes to the team spirit and the style of play.

“Mourinho impressed me because he had no qualms. For him, it’s ‘I decide what’s best for the team’. No emotion. That’s a real strength.

“Arsène is a bit more clam, composed, diplomatic. For me, I try and use what sticks to my personality.

 Arsene Wenger is too calm for Vieira's liking
4
Arsene Wenger is too calm for Vieira's likingCredit: Reuters

“The worst thing to do would be to try and be a bit Mourinho, a bit Wenger, a bit Capello, because the player knows when you’re not being yourself, and after that, it’s hard to keep it up.”

Like another former Arsenal captain, Mikel Arteta, Vieira made his start in coaching at Man City. From 2013-2015 he was in charge of the reserves at the Etihad.

He is now manager of New York City FC, coaching the likes of Frank Lampard and David Villa.

His side must overturn a 2-0 deficit at home to Toronto on Sunday to keep their season alive.


Keep up to date with ALL the Arsenal news, gossip, transfers and goals on our club page plus fixtures, results and live match commentary

Topics