As much as Arsenal fans have criticised Arsene Wenger in recent years, the man has always been loved by his players.

In fact, you have to wonder how much of a role the Arsenal boss played in the arrivals of Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang over the January transfer window. That's not to mention the contract extension of the openly pro-Wenger Mesut Ozil just a month later.

Back in 2013, Ozil was one of many Arsenal players to cite Wenger as a massive reason behind their move to the Emirates Stadium.

The German told Bild: “I am really happy to be here under such a great manager.

“That was the most important, what he thinks about me, what his plans are with me, and I decided to come to Arsenal because I have the trust. I would have come here without a fee, that wouldn’t have been a problem."

The squad is fully behind Wenger

So the effect of Wenger's impending summer exit on certain members of the squad should not be underestimated.

Will his departure bring about the exits of players? Probably not, and Arsenal have some big names on their list of successors with the likes of Carlo Ancelotti and Luis Enrique mooted.

Nevertheless, while Wenger leaving might not encourage players to leave, who the north London club picks in his place, might.

Three players waiting on next manager announcement

According to the Telegraph, that could certainly be the case.

In fact, three players who are out of contract at the end of next season are waiting on the announcement of Arsenal's next manager to come to a conclusion on their future.

Whether that means leaving in the summer so the club gets a fee or simply running their contract all the way to its terminus, it could be worrying for Arsenal.

The three players in question are Aaron Ramsey, Danny Welbeck and Petr Cech.

There wouldn't be too much shock if Cech was already on his last contract at the Emirates, but Ramsey and Welbeck have enjoyed key roles in the Arsenal side over recent weeks.

Ramsey has provided 12 goals and eight assists this season, while Welbeck has covered well for Alexandre Lacazette with five goals in his last three full 90-minute outings.

Nevertheless, Arsenal could be at risk of losing them in 2019 if the new manager doesn't encourage them to extend their contract.

As for the increasingly complicated situation with Jack Wilshere, the Englishman has so far refused the offer of a new deal and Wenger's departure may encourage an exit.

If Wenger leaving in the summer brings anything to Arsenal, it's change.

And while supporters are almost universally pleased by the decision, it seems some of the players could need some persuading.

Do you think Wenger picked the right time to leave? Have your say in the comments section below.