Henry can take over from Wenger - Pires

Robert Pires sees no reason why Thierry Henry cannot
succeed Arsene Wenger when he eventually steps
down from the Arsenal job.

Thierry Henry could be the man to replace Arsene Wenger when
he finally leaves his role as Arsenal manager, according to
Robert Pires.

Wenger arrived at Arsenal in 1996 largely unheralded, but has
gone on to forge himself a reputation as one of the great
modern managers.

During his 19 years at the helm, the Frenchman has guided the
club to nine major honours, including the Premier League title in
2003-04 when a team including Henry and Pires went the entire
league season unbeaten.

Henry is now taking his coaching badges, and Pires sees no
reason why his former club and international team-mate could
not succeed Wenger.

"There always have been speculations - yesterday, today and
tomorrow. It's part of football and it applies to players and
managers," the Grassroot Soccer ambassador told Omnisport.

"Can I see Thierry Henry taking over Arsene Wenger? Yes, why
not.

"He is working on his badges. He is involved with the U19
[team] at Arsenal academy. He is preparing himself step by
step. He wants to get his badges.

"Question is: would Arsenal want Thierry Henry? It depends on
the board, the chairman. I can see Thierry Henry, as well as
Patrick Vieira. It's up to the club to prepare well the post-Arsene
era. That's crucial."

Vieira was appointed as New York City head coach earlier this
week, and Pires believes the former Arsenal captain could also
be in line for a return to the club at some stage in the future.

"It's a new experience and a new life for him. He will learn,"
Pires said. "Okay, it's MLS but you have to start your career
somewhere.

"I am sure - and it's only my opinion - we will see him on
Arsenal's bench.

"He was disappointed [to not be given a job at Arsenal] at first.
But now he understands and respects the choice of the people
at Arsenal. He hasn't written off the opportunity [of coaching
Arsenal].

"He played nine years at Arsenal. He was one of the emblematic
captains. He is still learning. I know him very well and I am sure
that he will manage a top European team."

Pires was speaking at a Grassroot Soccer charity event to mark
World AIDS Day, which was also attended by former Arsenal
colleague Freddie Ljungberg.

The funds raised by the players will be spent on a range of
unique sports-based partnerships in 50 countries around the
world, including a community project in South Africa and
Voluntary HIV Counselling and Testing tournaments in
Zimbabwe.