Arsène Wenger said Wednesday’s 2-1 win over Barcelona in the Champions League showed just how far his current crop of players have come. However, for Academy boss Liam Brady, the result will have ramifications far and beyond the present team.
No stranger to playing in massive occasions, Brady spoke to the BBC this week about the game and what it means for Arsenal’s potential stars of the future. He began by hailing his boss.
“It was one of the greatest nights in Arsenal’s history. It will inspire generations of young Arsenal players.”
“It is a tribute to Arsène Wenger and his philosophy. You can spend £50 million on a player, but you can’t buy team spirit. He’s one of the most astute managers of all time.”
The tradition of giving the Reserves and Youth players tickets to the game continued on Wednesday, with most of the Under 18′s being present, sat behind the bench, watching on. Brady believes that kind of education is priceless.
“The youth team were at the game. What a privilege for Arsenal’s kids to see Messi, Xavi and Villa running their socks off for the team. It’s a phenomenal lesson and matches like these build their dreams.”
The Man of the Match was arguably Jack Wilshere, who was outstanding in a central midfield packed with the biggest and best names in the game. The Academy product was part developed by Brady, and he can’t be more proud of how Jack has turned out, and the legacy he’s left from Hale End upwards.
“Jack wants to be one of the worlds best. Going head-to-head with Xavi and Iniesta was amazing. He has everything to reach that level. Wilshere mixed it with the worlds best and that shows how much Wenger trusts the Academy.”
Whatever happens in the second leg, the first leg victory has left a firm imprint on the clubs staff and players.