Arsenal have since evolved from a team built on the traditional English attributes of hard graft, defensive craft and a team spirit forged in snooker halls and bars into a club synonymous with sophistication and breathtaking attacking flair.
While that is all down to Wenger, he did not simply arrive and rip up all that went before. Had he done that it is unlikely the former Monaco coach would have been toasting becoming the club's longest-serving and most successful manager on Thursday.
It was fitting that he led the side to the 1997-98 league and cup double in Wenger's first full season at the helm.
For all Wenger's love of artistic movement and intricate passing patterns, he has always known that a strong central core is vital for any side serious about collecting silverware.
"You have to remember, no matter where you end up, the people who helped make you along the way," said Henry, who scored a record 174 goals and was part of the 2003-04 Invincibles who won a third title under Wenger without losing a a match.
"I won the treble with Barcelona last year, but I know that if it wasn't for Arsene Wenger I would not be the player I am."
When Wenger arrived from the obscurity of the Japanese J-League, it also signified the start of one of the greatest rivalries in English club football as the London club challenged Alex Ferguson's Manchester United dynasty.
Wenger spoke of his pride this week that he has overseen the club's move from Highbury to the gleaming Emirates stadium while still delivering teams challenging for honours.
"I wouldn't be happy to work in a club that loses 30 million pounds each year," Wenger, who has won three league titles, four FA Cups and reached the Champi
