Wenger backs Vieira to succeed if he takes over at New York City FC

Arsene Wenger insists former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira has all the right qualities to be a manager following reports that he could take over at New York City FC

Vieira spent nine years under Wenger at Arsenal and formed a strong bond with the Gunners manager, who believes the 39-year-old has what it takes to succeed Jason Kreis at the struggling club.

Major League Soccer’s joint-newest franchise are languishing in eighth place in the Eastern Conference and will miss out on the play-offs, leading to many questioning Kreis’ ability to take the team forward.

Meanwhile, NYCFC’s closest rivals, the New York Red Bulls, sit atop the Eastern Conference and are among the favourites to lift the MLS Cup.

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Arsene Wenger and Patrick Vieira hold the Premier League trophy

Image credit: Reuters

Reports suggest Vieira, who is currently the elite development squad coach at Manchester City, could move across the Atlantic and take over at Yankee Stadium.

And Wenger believes the World Cup winner is now ready to take the next step in his career.

“He has the qualities to be a manager,” said Wenger. “He is old enough to start.

"It depends what he wants to do.”

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