Arsenal legend Robert Pires has admitted he is excited to see former manager Arsene Wenger return to the dugout soon.
The veteran coach recently admitted he has received 'enquiries from all over the world' as he plans a return in January. Wenger, 68, ended his 22-year reign at Arsenal at the end of last season.
But, following some time out of the game, the Frenchman, who won three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups with the Gunners, feels ready to step back into the dugout.
Pires, who won two Premier League titles under his fellow Frenchman, is eagerly awaiting Wenger's return and admitted football would be better for his presence on the touchline.
He told Sky Sports News: 'This is a good question for Arsene Wenger. I hope he will find a new project, a new challenge. I don't know where - maybe in the UK, maybe in France.
'Football needs people like Arsene Wenger. He's a great manager, he knows everything about football, he loves football, he's passionate.
'I don't know what's happened in the last couple of weeks for Arsene Wenger, but I want to see him again on the bench.'
In an interview with German newspaper Bild, Wenger revealed he expected to take up the offer of a new job again early next year.
'I believe that (I will) start again on January 1. I don't know (where) yet. I feel rested and am ready to work again,' said Wenger, who joined Arsenal from Japanese club Nagoya Grampus Eight in 1996.
'There are associations, national teams, it could be also (in) Japan.
'From my 22 years at Arsenal, I have big experience on different levels. There are enquiries from all over the world.'