Arsenal's second largest shareholder Alisher Usmanov has claimed that the club "need" to keep hold of manager Arsene Wenger.
Some disgruntled supporters have called for the Frenchman to call an end to his almost 20-year reign at the North London outfit following a string of poor results.
The Gunners have been knocked out of both the Champions League and the FA Cup, and they have also slumped to 11 points behind Premier League leaders Leicester City.
Despite the discontent among fans, Usmanov has given his public backing to Wenger.
"Arsenal's results are stable," Usmanov told Rossiya24. "They are always among the leaders of the English Premier League. This is a good and large sports business project, and I am pleased with it. The only thing is that today such situation occurred, like in any sport, there are ups and downs. The club must retain its major symbol and main asset - manager Arsene Wenger.
"Failures have been haunting Arsenal for many years now, they cannot become the EPL champions. This has led to some discontent with Wenger's position as a manager. I believe that Arsene Wenger is a great coach, and Arsenal have to give him the opportunity to plan the succession process and leave his legacy when he deems it necessary.
"It is very important for the football club to maintain the principles that were established by those people who created its victories. Arsenal need Arsene Wenger."
Usmanov recently increased his share in the club to 30%.
Danielle Joynson
