Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that he will step down from his role at the end of the season, bringing to an end a trophy-laden but also increasingly fractious 22-year association between the Frenchman and the club.

MerciArsène pic.twitter.com/bjP0wLMgee

— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) April 20, 2018

In a statement to the club’s website, he said:

“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.

“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 team to finish on a high.

“To all the Arsenal lovers take care of the values of the club.

“My love and support forever.”

Meanwhile, majority shareholder Stan Kroenke has expressed his thanks to the Frenchman for his service to the north London side.

“This is one of the most difficult days we have ever had in all our years in sport,” he said. “One of the main reasons we got involved with Arsenal was because of what Arsene has brought to the club on and off the pitch. His longevity and consistency over such a sustained period at the highest level of the game will never be matched.

The Gunners are sixth in the league and set to miss out on a top-four spot for the second straight season, with their hopes of reaching the Champions League resting on winning the Europa League.

“What he has done in English football is quite remarkable”

Former colleague David Dein pays tribute to departing @Arsenal boss, Arsene Wenger… pic.twitter.com/J4Id29DDAM

— Premier League (@premierleague) April 20, 2018

Wenger, 68, was appointed as Arsenal manager in 1996 and has won three Premier League titles and a record seven FA Cups during his time in charge of the club, including the Double in 1998 and 2002.