Thierry Henry, the legendary Arsenal striker, is a potential candidate for the Welsh national team manager position. The Football Association of Wales (FAW) sacked Rob Page last Friday after Wales failed to qualify for Euro 2024 and now seeks a high-profile replacement.
Henry currently leads France’s Under-21 side and prepares to manage the country’s Olympic team at the Paris Games next month. He has a connection to Wales, having studied for his coaching badges with the FAW and maintaining a good relationship with FAW chief football officer David Adams.
Although the FAW may not offer Henry as large a salary as other national associations, they believe financial constraints won’t necessarily prevent a deal. Henry could continue his lucrative media and sponsorship work if he became Wales manager, similar to how Ryan Giggs balanced his business interests and managerial duties during his tenure as Wales boss.
Henry’s stellar playing career includes numerous titles and individual honors with Arsenal and Barcelona. He also has coaching experience, serving as an assistant to Belgium and managing other teams.
Former Wales striker Robert Earnshaw, who spent time with Henry on a coaching course, praised Henry’s football brain and ability to work with young players. Earnshaw believes Henry would raise the level of the Welsh national team if he took over as manager.
The FAW plans to take its time appointing a successor, with no fixtures for Wales until their Nations League campaign at home against Turkey in September. However, the prospect of Henry managing the Welsh national team has generated significant interest and excitement among fans and experts alike.
