Arsene Wenger thanked Manchester United for a "very classy" reception on his last visit to Old Trafford, as Alex Ferguson presented him with a gift before Sunday's 2-1 loss. Wenger was greeted by a big ovation from the home fans and was then handed a metal vase in a box by his long-time rival in a friendly reunion before kickoff.
The Frenchman still left Old Trafford with another loss after Marouane Fellaini's late winner, but said he appreciated the welcome.
"I am thankful to Manchester United because they gave a nice gesture before the game. It was very classy from them," said Wenger, who is stepping down after his 22nd season in charge of the Gunners. "It's the first time I get a trophy before the game, that's new. [The reception from fans] shows you that once you are not a danger anymore, people love you."
Wenger fielded a young and inexperienced side as he rested a number of starters ahead of Thursday's Europa League semifinal at Atletico Madrid but nearly came away with a point after a spirited display. Centre-back Konstantinos Mavropanos impressed on his Arsenal debut while 20-year-old Ainsley Maitland-Niles put in a man-of-the-match performance in central midfield. And Wenger was full of praise for both youngsters.
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