Some disgruntled Arsenal fans were ready to put their grievances to one side this afternoon as Arsene Wenger faced into his final run of games in charge.
Having desired the Frenchman's exit for a number of years now, the reality of their wish coming to fruition inspired a swell of support for Wenger's contribution to the club.
Speaking to Sky Sports in the wake of Arsenal's impressive 4-1 against West Ham United, Wenger admitted that it was 'nice' to experience this hitherto rare celebratory mood:
You want your fans to be happy, and sometimes if I can be happy as well it is good.
Suggesting that he was 'ready to suffer' to make the Arsenal fans happy, it is perhaps not too significant a stretch to suggest that his decision to step away from the club after 22 years at the helm is one such ordeal he is willing to go through.
Questioned on his prior conviction to always see out his contract, Wenger remained tight-lipped on why he was now leaving Arsenal after only one year had elapsed on a two-year deal:
Look, I have nothing to add [to my statement]. Apart from that, there's not a lot to say.
Sounding quite reserved in his resilience, Wenger did not categorically deny that he may yet pursue another role in management when his spell at Arsenal comes to an end.
Regarding the possibility of him returning to the club in another capacity someday, Wenger conceded that that would not be his decision.
