• Premier League

Disrespectful Mancini 'out of order' - Wenger

ESPN staff
July 16, 2011
Arsene Wenger insists Samir Nasri is staying at Arsenal © PA Photos
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Arsene Wenger stood defiantly over the future of Samir Nasri on Saturday, reiterating his belief that the midfielder will stay at Arsenal whilst accusing Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini of showing a clear lack of respect.

Wenger cut an angry figure as he responded to questions following Arsenal's 1-1 draw with Hangzhou Greentown, which saw Nasri start the game despite ongoing doubts over his future.

Mancini confirmed on Saturday morning that he intends to sign the France international, who only has a year to run on his current Arsenal contract. The City boss even said he hopes to have sealed the deal by the end of July.

"I hope that we can buy because we need other players," said Mancini on Sky Sports News. "And I hope that this player can arrive before the end of the month."

Wenger stopped short of stating that he would report Manchester City for their conduct regarding the Nasri transfer, which could potentially be perceived as tapping up. The Arsenal boss did, however, agree with the suggestion that Mancini had disrespected him, and he labelled the Italian's comments "out of order".

"I think the comments are not allowed. They are against the basic rules of football and he should be informed [of that]," said Wenger. "I don't know what should be done. I don't spend my time worrying about what other people say because we are focused on our game.

"What we want is respect and we don't make these comments about players who are under contract at other clubs. Disrespectful? I cannot say otherwise. This comment is absolutely out of order but I don't give it more importance than that."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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