Arsene Wenger, Arsenal Football Club longest-serving and most successful manager is to step down from his job at the end of the 2017/2018 season after 22  years at the helm.

Wenger confirmed the development in a statement released on the club’s website on Friday. In the statement, he stressed the importance of maintaining the values of encouraging youthful and entertaining football which he inculcated into the club and English football.

“After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season,” Wenger said.

“I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years. I managed the club with full commitment and integrity.

“I want to thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so special. I urge our fans to stand behind the club to finish on a high. To all Arsenal lovers, take care of the value of the club. My love and support for ever,” Wenger said.

The 68-year-old Frenchman won three Premier League titles, an all-time record seven FA Cups, two doubles, reached the 2006 European Cup final and went the entire 2003 – 2004 Premier League season undefeated .Having taken charge of a record 823 games, Wenger has faced opposition in recent seasons over the repeated failure of the Gunners to shine at both the English Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.

Arsenal are still scheduled to meet Spain’s Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals of the Europa Cup but even with the prospect of winning the cup and returning the team to the more prestigious Champions League, a decision has been reached to end the years of uncertainty about Wenger’s ambition.

The club has announced that it would make an appointment as soon as possible. Wenger had on Thursday tipped former Arsenal midfielder and New York City gaffer and fellow Frenchman, Patrick Vieira as his possible replacement.