What nationality is former Arsenal coach, Arsene Wenger?

Former Arsenal coach Arsène Wenger was French. Born in Strasbourg in 1949, Wenger grew up in Duttlenheim, Alsace, and began playing football in local clubs before entering management. His French nationality remained central to his identity even after he became one of English football’s most influential managers.

Wenger coached Nancy and Monaco in France, winning the French league with Monaco in 1988, before managing Japan’s Nagoya Grampus. Arsenal appointed him in 1996, and he led the club until 2018. He became Arsenal’s longest-serving manager and won three Premier League titles, including the unbeaten 2003–04 season.

A common mix-up is confusing Wenger’s nationality with his place of employment. He managed in England for 22 years, but he was not English. He is also sometimes described as Alsatian, referring to his home region; Alsace is part of France, so “French” is the standard nationality answer. After Arsenal, Wenger joined FIFA as its Chief of Global Football Development.