"Arsene Wenger" by John Cross, my review

09:09:00 Unknown 0 Comments

I recently finished a book by the chief football writer for the mirror, Mr John Cross “The inside of Arsenal under Wenger” It’s among a few books my girlfriend bought me for Christmas.
The book briefly covers Wenger's early life and career along with his managerial positions in Monaco and in Japan before he was employed at Arsenal through his relationship with David Dean. Cross gives personal experiences of his media work over many years during with he has developed a good relationship with the Frenchman. Cross has undertaken extensive primary research of former and current footballers and football people who have worked with and around Wenger (it’s packed with exclusive interviews!).

It didn’t take long for Wenger to become a hit at Arsenal and as we all know implemented his pass and move, fast and attacking footballing philosophy which always entertains football followers in England and beyond. Wenger is a football purist and feels it his duty to not only bring success but for his team to entertain every single week. The highlight of the book is the “Invisibles”chapter where Cross waxes lyrical about Wengers 2003/2004 premier league unbeaten champions. Cross devotes a portion of the book to reminiscing of the glory days which Arsenal fans will enjoy but to his credit looks at some of the more uncomfortable questions surrounding Wengers tenure in North London.

The book has some good in depth analysis and reflection but at times lacks evidence and contains a number of assumptions in some but not all areas. The building of the new stadium and the trophy drought his considered along with the success of Wenger bringing champions league football and stability to the club through financially difficult times,  where his job role seemed to evolved into Accountant almost as much as General Manager. Though Arsenal fans remainat least partially split on whither Wenger is still the man to take the club forward, Cross leaves it up to the reader to draw their own conclusions based on the substantial evidence provided.

This is worth a read, even if you’re not a fan of Wenger or Arsenal. Cross without doubt gives a fresh insight through his experiences working in the media. The book is on sale at Amazon for £16.59 hard back and the kindle addition is just £11.99.