Barcelona vs Arsenal: Arsene Wenger is the 'chosen one', insists Luis Enrique

One of a kind: Wenger has been in charge of Arsenal for 19 years
David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Sam Long16 March 2016

Barcelona boss Luis Enrique has described Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger as a "chosen one", despite ongoing speculation regarding the Frenchman's future.

Wenger's out-of-form side face the Catalan giants at the Camp Nou tonight needing to overturn a two-goal deficit to qualify for the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in six years.

Such an achievement appears to be unlikely given that Barcelona are unbeaten in 37 games and the Gunners have won just four of their previous 14 games in all competitions.

Wenger has been in charge of Arsenal for 19 years but the prospect of finishing another season empty handed has seen some sections of the club's fan base call for his departure in recent days.

Arsene Wenger: I've built Arsenal with hard work - we've moved forward without any money from anybody
Dan Mullan/Getty Images

However, Enrique is adamant Wenger's longevity proves that he is good enough to continue working at the top level.

“In the modern era it is impossible,” the Spaniard said when asked if he could replicate the length of Wenger's reign at the Emirates.

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“It is not the case now with any coach. It means Wenger is a very good coach, no one doubts about that and only the chosen ones can be such a long time in one club - it is because of their good quality.

“I really don’t have a deep knowledge to assess the situation of Mr. Wenger, but every time there are more coaches out there and more competition and possibilities - the number of teams is always the same but there are more coaches.

“That is why it is difficult to be 20 years in the same position, and that is why he has done a good job and is at a good level,” he added.

Barcelona are aiming to become the first side to retain the Champions League trophy this season and Enrique is adamant his side will not let complacency creep into their game against Arsenal.

“We are not going to change, the objective is the same as in any match.

"The result we got [in the first leg] was very good but it is not going to change our approach, training or preparation.

"The opponent is dangerous and we need to play very well to get to the next round.”

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