13th December, 2012
Arsenal Chief Executive Ivan Gazidis has apologised to the club’s fans, and described Arsenal’s defeat to Bradford City as ‘not good enough’. The chief said he is tired of ‘delivering the message’.
However, that there is absolutely no threat to manager Arsene Wenger’s position, and the club’s long-term plans remain in place.
Speaking at a meeting with supporters that had been organised before the remarkable League Cup upset, Gazidis apologised to the fans and insisted they “deserve better”.
“I think I am frankly tired of getting up here and delivering the same message,” Gazidis said. “Tuesday night was not good enough and it made us all upset and angry. I would like to apologise to all of you, especially the fans who travelled up there. It was unbelievable support as ever and you deserved better.
“That is something we will work hard to put right. We all work here and are desperate to deliver the success and trophies we all want. Look into the eyes of the staff here, look at the way they talk.
“We will get this right. I initially thought this would be a great opportunity to spread Christmas cheer. I don’t think it will be but I hope to speak to all of you. In spite that, there is absolutely no will among the Arsenal board to sack a manager who shares their vision.”
while Wenger himself will never break a contract.
The one change that may come regards transfer spending, with the club finally prepared to significantly bolster their squad in January. Some reports have suggested Wenger will have up to £60m to purchase players of higher quality.