A pre-match demonstration of fans carrying banners calling for the Frenchman to leave cast a shadow over the Gunners’ 2-2 draw with Manchester City and prompted clashes between supporters in the pro and anti Wenger camps.
The uncertainty surrounding the manager’s future was reinforced by Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis yesterday morning who confirmed to a fans forum that the decision about whether Wenger will stay has not yet been made.
The issue contributed to a tense atmosphere inside the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal attempted to revive their bid for a top four finish.
Wenger admitted his side was affected by nerves at the start of the game but after seeing his team twice recover to claim a point, claimed the point could kick-start their run-in.
The manager said: “We have shown great mental resources because we were twice down.
“You could see that the players were down after it went to 2-1 but they gave everything to come back. The draw is the least we needed today. Psychologically it was important not to lose.”
Wenger insisted he was unaware of the protests before the game – but repeated his stance that a decision on his future will be made soon.
He said: “I am not aware of what happens outside. What is important in football is on the pitch and inside the stadium. And the fans were ab outstanding today.
“We are in a tough battle for the top four. I am professional and I have shown great loyalty in the past. I love this club, I don’t know how long I will be here, I am clear in my head, that’s the most important thing. The decision will be soon.”
City manager Pep Guardiola saw his side twice concede the lead and blow the chance to close the gap on leaders Chelsea to nine points ahead of the trip to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.
His frustration was compounded by referee Andre Marriner’s decision not to award a late penalty when the ball struck Nacho Monreal’s arm late on.
Guardiola said: “Monreal said he touched the ball with the hand. But he said to me in England in that kind of situation there’s no whistles.”
“I said to the referee, the same happened against Tottenham, the same referee. I said ‘always in face’. I don’t come here to talk about the referees. But of course, if Monreal said it…”
He added: “We wanted to do that (win to stay in the title race), definitely.”
“By November the people said we were out of the title race, so we are calm on that.”
