Arsene Wenger is under serious pressure to leave Arsenal at the end of the season following another disappointing campaign.

The Europa League is the only trophy left for the Gunners to contest and winning it is unlikely to sway what’s a growing consensus among supporters.

Some of those who believe his 22-year reign should’ve come to an end long ago are calling for him to be replaced by one of their club legends, namely Thierry Henry or Patrick Vieira.

The latter – who won three Premier League titles under Wenger – believes his former boss deserves the freedom to decide when it’s best for him to walk away.

"I think if it's the end of the story, he'll be the first to recognise it," Vieira told L’Equipe, per Goal.

"And I would still like to add that in relation to everything he has done for the club, in relation to what he has built and what he has won, he is legitimate enough to decide for himself when he will retire.

"He has the right to make this decision himself.”

But with Arsenal 33 points off the pace set by Manchester City, it’s no wonder sections of the Emirates are adamant the ‘right’ time is long gone.

However, Vieira insists some of the attacks levelled at Wenger are unjust given the 68-year-old has always had the club’s best interests at heart – especially when top clubs came calling.

"If there really is someone who loves this club and wants this club to succeed, it's Arsene," he said.

"Then we can discuss how the team plays or something else, but I find that the criticisms that fall on Arsene on a personal level are difficult to accept.

“It may have been becoming a coach myself that makes me feel differently. I remember very well every time he refused the biggest clubs to stay at Arsenal.

"I know what I'm talking about, because the same clubs contacted me and told me, when I met them, that their number one goal was to bring in Arsene. He said no to everyone to stay at, and today people forget about it.”

Wenger has to throw in the towel sooner or later, though, and there’s no question Vieira would be a hugely popular appointment if he were to take over.

With little more than two years’ experience as head coach of New York City, could he be up to the task?

Well, when asked if he would consider succeeding Wenger, Vieira certainly didn’t shut the door on the opportunity.

"Let's say that someday it might interest me. But one day," he said.

"I cannot say anything more because there is nothing to say about it and I do not want to offend Arsene, whom I adore and for whom I have a lot of respect. Because I know that he suffers a lot from the current results, even more than hearing what his former players say.”

What Vieira lacks in managerial experience he makes up for in his leadership qualities and connection to Arsenal, but who knows if it would be enough to land him the job.

Would Patrick Vieira be a suitable replacement for Arsene Wenger? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment.