In eight years under George Graham, Arsenal—once a club brimming with potential for even greater glory—had managed two league titles, a League Cup, an FA Cup, and last season's European Cup Winners' Cup. Yet despite those achievements, the success had begun to fade, and the fall from grace was swift.
This season in the Premier League, things had taken a darker turn. Following George Graham's dismissal due to a bribery scandal, Arsenal were no longer just failing to contend for the title—they had lost their identity under Bruce Rioch. They now struggled even to hold their heads high in their own city. In London derbies, they looked fragile.
Richard shook his head. The ups and downs of this team were a classic case of coaching responsibility. But he was curious—where was Arsène Wenger? Wasn't he supposed to take charge of Arsenal in the 1996 season? Why was Bruce Rioch still managing the team?
