Arsene Wenger has announced he is leaving Arsenal, the club he has managed for 22 years.

The long-serving Frenchman has been the target of considerable fan dissatisfaction due to his side’s failure to challenge for the Premier League title.

With his side sixth in the table and set to miss out on a top-four spot for the second season in a row their only hope of making next term’s Champions League rests upon lifting the Europa League.

Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Newcastle was their 11th in the league this season, equalling their worst tally in a campaign under Wenger – a massive 33 points behind champions Manchester City, who have 87 points

He said on Friday morning: “After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season.

“I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years.

“I managed the club with full commitment and integrity.

“I want to thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so special.

“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 host West Ham on Sunday then face Spanish side Atletico Madrid, who are second in La Liga, in the Europa League semi-finals, with the first leg on Thursday.