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Wenger urges Flamini to concentrate on football, not money

27/04/2008

Arsene Wenger has called on Mathieu Flamini to stick with Arsenal rather than make a big-money move abroad in the summer.

The French midfielder has been one of the London side's top players in a frustrating season for the club, which has seen them go without silverware for another year.

However, his contract is due to expire and he is believed to be interested in a move away from the Emirates Stadium, with Italian giants Juventus the hot favourites to win his signature.

According to Wenger, players should no longer be considering only the financial rewards of football, but should act in the best interests of their professional career.

"Flamini can earn more somewhere else that is for sure because it would be a free transfer - but how much is he ready to sacrifice to stay here," he said.

"What is really important is that this team says 'let's go to the end of our potential together and not walk out for any simpler reason' - and that is where I expect them to show strength, and care what they can achieve together."

Wenger has also had to deal with speculation linking Alexander Hleb and Cesc Fabregas with possible summer moves, and, given his reluctance to spend big in the transfer market, the manager will be keen to keep his current squad together as much as is possible.

Arsenal play away at Derby County on Monday evening.