Arsene Wenger says former Arsenal striker was impactful in his career

Wenger who joined Arsenal in 1996 will have spent 20 years as coach of the Gunners on Saturday, October 1.

Wenger worked with Kanu, signing the Nigerian player from Inter Milan in 1999.

“African players had a massive impact on my career because I always managed them right from the moment I started in the top league in France,” Wenger said.

“Kanu had a massive impact here, too, I had too… so all these players had a massive impact.”

Weah was signed by Wenger in 1988 when the French man was coach of Monaco.

The African football legend learned under Wenger before he became a world class striker winning the 1995 FIFA World Player of the Year and the Ballon d'Or, -the first African player to achieve that feat.

“I had African players at Monaco and I like the fact that they were creative and they are usually attacking players with imagination. They have pace and power as well, and they usually combine strength and agility well. That’s very difficult to find,” Wenger added.

“Africans are hugely passionate people and there is a big passion in Africa for the game. They are happy on the football pitch and that’s something which has been fantastic for us.”

Wenger, 66 received many gifts at the London Colney as he celebrated two decades in charge of Arsenal.

He was presented with a crystal vase by club Chairman Sir Chips Keswick to commemorate his 20th year as Arsenal boss.