'The boss is a father figure to all of us'

Kanu was one of the club legends in attendance at Emirates Stadium for what was an emotional goodbye to Arsene Wenger.

The former Nigeria international said it was important for him to be there to pay his respects to a manager who played such a key role in his career.

"He’s been like a father figure for all of us," Kanu told Arsenal Player. "For me, when I was at Inter Milan he did everything to try to get me to Arsenal for six months. That’s the kind of person you want to be and want to support.

 

"At the time, nobody believed in me. They were like, ‘You’re coming out from hospital, can you play football?’ But he believed in me and when I came here, I didn’t disappoint him. That’s why I’m here today.

"I love [the celebrations of him at the Emirates]. It’s a very good show of respect. I’ve seen a lot of people wearing red saying ‘Merci Arsène’.

 

"After the game, nobody left their seat. They’re all here to support him, say goodbye and thank him for all that he has done for the club."