It’s absurd to try to summarize the importance of Ian Wright. Not only for what he has done and continues to do for Arsenal but also as important is what he does for AFWC and the women’s game.
I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Ian but if I had to guess, I’m pretty sure that he would be the first one to say that I’m giving him too much credit, that this isn’t a real thing and that he is nowhere near as important to Arsenal Women as Vic Akers, Kelly Smith, etc etc etc.
The best way that I can attempt to explain what I mean is the following:
When the conversation about who is the best player ever comes about we usually hear the debate be centered among Pele, Maradona and Messi. For me, the question I always go back to isn’t “who is the best player ever?” but instead: “who is the most important footballer ever?”
The answer is a clear one: Johan Cruyff.
Not because I’m obsessed with the dutch, but #14’s playing, his philosophy, his coaching. He did it all, in a very specific way that had a profound impact.
So in my opinion, to a certain degree, Wrighty is as important to Arsenal as Cruyff is to world football.
He’s an Arsenal legend, we all know that…He is also a fantastic pundit, podcaster, has a great taste in hats, and moreover he often uses his voice and speaks out for social causes and loudly stands against racism and misogyny. On top of that the way he champions the girls is legendary in itself. Goes to virtually every match, tweets and posts about virtually every single player in the squad. Supports in every which way… you get the idea.
This is not something you’re hearing for the first time and it also never gets tiring to give him credit. On the same token though, I would guess that Ian feels it’s natural, it’s common sense and absolutely effortless.
Imagine if 5 or 6 more legends would be like him! Image the impact that could have.
Wish at some point we don’t have to imagine it.
d ❤
Listen to THAT ARSENAL WOMEN PODCAST on:
A very subjective look into AWFC 
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