Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has received the support of his Chelsea rival Antonio Conte.
The Gunners’ 5-1 defeat at the hands of Bayern Munich on Wednesday has increased speculation over the future of Wenger, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
The Frenchman confirmed earlier on Friday that he expects a decision on his future to be made in March or April, telling reporters: “No matter what happens I will manage next season – here or somewhere else.”
And speaking at his own press conference, ahead of an FA Cup tie with Wolves, Blues boss Conte insisted Wenger was still doing a good job.
“I have great respect for Arsene Wenger as a manager and as a man,” the Italian said.
“I think that he’s done a good job for 20 years at Arsenal and is doing a great job in the present.
“When you are the coach of a great team, you are under pressure in every moment – above all, if there is a moment that the results are not good.
“I think Arsene Wenger is a really good manager, one of the best in the world. I have great respect for him and his team because for me they are very strong, and they have a good idea of football.
“At the moment their results are not good, but I think that it’s important you don’t forget the work the coach and the players have done in the past and they are doing in the present.”