What many thought would never happen, has happened.

Arsene Wenger announced on Friday morning that he would be stepping aside as Arsenal manager at the end of the season after 22 years at the post.

It draws the curtains on an era at the club that many, for better or worse, never thought would end.

In an emotional goodbye on Arsenal's website, Wenger wrote: “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 for ever.”

Arsenal discussing Wenger's successor 

No matter whether Arsenal supporters were 'Wenger In' or 'Wenger Out', everyone has come together to thank him for what's he done for the club over his two-decade reign.

Of course, while there is still a month of football and goodbyes to go, attention now turns to whom Arsenal will recruit in Wenger's place.

The task of replacing such a legendary figure at the Emirates Stadium certainly won't be easy, but Arsenal command the resources to attract some of the biggest names in management.

Five names on the list revealed

There's little doubt that Arsenal will consider numerous options going forward, if they haven't agreed on a successor already.

Well, according to the Independent, there are five managers that Arsenal fans can be certain that the club has already contacted.

The biggest name on the list, by far, is Luis Enrique.

The former Barcelona boss could secure a smooth passage into north London with his contacts amongst the Arsenal board and his relationship with Raul Sanllehi. Nevertheless, he has frustrated some members of the Arsenal hierarchy by demanding wages tantamount to Wenger's.

From there on in, the list becomes rather underwhelming.

It is believed that both Patrick Vieira and Mikel Arteta are being considered for the job, yet New York City and Manchester City respectively are reluctant to let their coaches go.

Then there's the influence of German scout Sven Mislintat who is exploring the availabilities of Schalke and Hoffenheim bosses Domenico Tedesco and Julian Nagelsmann.

There is no suggestion that the list in the report is exhaustive and the likes of Brendan Rodgers, Massimiliano Allegri and Carlo Ancelotti have also been mooted. 

Only time will tell who Arsenal choose in Wenger's place but, for the time being, Gooners probably need to digest what is a historic day for the club.

Who do you want to replace Arsene Wenger? Have your say in the comments section below.