I never had any real problem with Wenger – Gervinho

Gervinho has revisited his mixed spell in English football and later frustrations in Italy, offering insight into a career defined by brilliance, unpredictability and unfulfilled club ambitions.

Signed by Arsène Wenger in 2011, the Ivorian arrived at Arsenal with a growing reputation for explosive attacking play. However, his time in the Premier League became known for inconsistency, despite flashes of individual brilliance that thrilled supporters.

“Well, it must be said,” Gervinho recalls in an interview with Flashscore, “that there were very few defenders who managed to stop me when I was in full flight, when it was my day. Since I rarely played bad games, I have no memory of a defender who ever caused me problems. I went past them whenever I wanted to.”

Despite suggestions of difficulty adapting to Wenger’s system, Gervinho rejected the idea of any personal conflict with the French manager.

“In reality, there was never any real problem between me and the manager. Arsène Wenger is a great professional. It’s true, that same spark and special connection I had with Rudi Garcia didn’t click, but we had a completely normal relationship, based on professional respect and the classic dynamics between a coach and a player.”

After England, Gervinho rebuilt his reputation in Italy with Roma, where he became a key figure alongside Francesco Totti, Edin Dzeko and others. Yet despite strong squads and impressive performances, major trophies eluded the capital club.

“As you said, we had a fantastic team, full of great players. And we showed it on the pitch: we played beautiful football. We achieved excellent results and had important seasons, but unfortunately, we lacked that slice of luck needed to bring home a major title. It’s frustrating, but then again, that’s football,” he said.

Now retired since 2023, Gervinho remains active in football through youth development work and club ownership in Ivory Coast, maintaining a strong link to the game that defined his career.