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Arjen Robben has stated that Arsene Wenger is one of the best coaches in the world, despite the fact that the Frenchman had called him a ‘very good diver’ after Bayern Munich defeated Arsenal 3-1 over two legs in the round of 16 of the Champions League last year.
The Dutch winger has not traveled to London with the team but is going through training sessions at Bayern Munich’s Säbener Strasse complex. He has been out from the game for six weeks now, following a groin injury. Although, the winger is now almost fit and rearing to go.
In an interview with The Telegraph, he cleared the air about his relationship with Arsene Wenger, talked about the upcoming Champions League tie between the two clubs and also about managers who have influenced his football career over the years.
He said about Wenger, “I met him in Brazil, it was not a problem at all. No hard feelings. I’m quite easy that way.”
Robben believes that managers are usually very disappointed after a loss, and sometimes they say things which they don’t truly believe. So, he has no problem with what Wenger said to him around 19 months ago.
Arsenal always play positive football: Robben
The ex-Chelsea player praised Arsenal as well, along with Wenger.
He went on to say, “I think he’s unique. To be there for such a long time, you are doing a lot of things very, very well. See the players who became better. Look at the way Arsenal has developed. In Holland or Germany, they always talk positive about Arsenal. Why? The way they play, no negative football, always positive technical football, wanting to make the game. I think that is big credit to him.”
Arsenal vs Bayern Munich has somehow become a regular fixture in the UEFA Champions League, with both the clubs facing each other in the tournament for the third year running. A stern challenge awaits Pep Guardiola’s men in London, and Robben is completely aware of that fact.
When quizzed about his views on the upcoming match, he said, “I think they have got enough quality, I thought last season they did very well. They won prizes; the FA Cup and the Community Shield. They looked very stable and this year they look very strong. I was really surprised to see them lose two Champions League games but, on their good day, I think they can beat any team and we have to be aware.”
The Champions League 2013 winner praised two other managers in the interview, who are currently plying their trades in English football. Louis Van Gaal and Jose Mourinho. He believes LVG should be credited for building the current dynasty of players at Bayern Munich. As for Mourinho, he thinks the Portuguese helped him to strengthen his mentality.
