7. Lack Of Authority Over David Dein Departure
Sang Tan/AP/Press Association ImagesUpon his arrival at Arsenal in 1996, Arsene Wenger forged a close working relationship with vice-chairman David Dein. The two were a formidable partnership, and helped bring the likes of Sol Campbell and Marc Overmars to the club. In 2007, Dein was suddenly ousted from the Gunners after supporting the advances of American businessman Stan Kroenke while others opposed the move. It was perhaps no coincidence that a sudden cessation in transfer dealings occurred soon after Dein's departure, with Wenger failing to land his targets while at the same time being unable to keep hold of the players he did have. Wenger suddenly looked lost after Dein left, and should have taken a much firmer stance in ensuring he didn't leave. An 'either he stays or I go' approach might have sufficed, but instead the Frenchman either failed or refused to exercise any authority on the situation. Had Wenger done more to keep hold of Dein, the likes of Robin van Persie, Samir Nasri and co. might still be at the club today. Regrettably, it is poor decision making and indecision that will blight Wenger's copybook when we look back on his career years from now.