“I’m warning Arteta not to repeat the same thing or else he will also regret it for the rest of his life. It is the biggest regret of my life.”- Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger shares his greatest regret from his 22-year tenure at the club, which may have an impact on Mikel Arteta as well.

In an open assessment of his remarkable 22-year run as Arsenal’s manager, legendary tactician Arsene Wenger has revealed what he believes to be his biggest career regret: Ashley Cole’s 2006 exit from the team. Wenger led Arsenal to extraordinary success during his 26-year tenure (1996–2018), winning three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups.

Wenger’s thoughts illuminate a critical juncture in Arsenal’s past, when the choice to split ways with Cole turned out to be a critical error. After Cole left, he signed with rival Chelsea, where he developed into one of the best left-backs in the world and was essential to the Blues’ victories, including a highly sought-after Champions League title.

Wenger reflected on this unfortunate chapter and discussed his feelings on the Seaman Says podcast. He expressed his deep respect for Cole’s accomplishments after leaving Arsenal. Furthermore, Wenger openly revealed that during his tenure, Arsenal had been perilously close to signing two other legendary players: N’Golo Kante and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The close calls involving Ronaldo and Kante—both of whom went on to become legendary players for opposing teams—further highlight Wenger’s admission of lost chances during his tenure at Arsenal. After winning a title with Leicester City, Kante moved to Chelsea, which helped him reach the highest level of European football. Ronaldo, on the other hand, went on to have successful stints at Manchester United and Real Madrid.

Wenger’s thoughts provide insight into the difficult world of football administration, where choices made or chances passed up can significantly impact a team’s future. Wenger may have left Arsenal with a lasting legacy, but his revelations serve as a reminder of the narrow margins and hypothetical scenarios that characterize the beautiful game.