Patrick Vieira disappointed to not start coaching career with Arsenal

Patrick Vieira has expressed disappointment in not starting his coaching career with Arsenal, which he calls "the club of my heart."

The current New York City FC boss just finished his first campaign in charge of the Major League Soccer club after taking the reins in November of last year.

However Vieira, who ended his playing career with NYCFC's parent club Manchester City, said it was unfortunate he couldn't begin his coaching journey with the Emirates side.

"It's true that after spending nine years at Arsenal, it's the club of my heart -- the one where I played my best football -- I would have liked if the door was more open to me or other players who spent time there and who would have wanted to learn their career as a coach," Vieira told RMC on Thursday.

"Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. I was very fortunate to come across Manchester City at the right moment, but it's true that there is a little bit of disappointment with Arsenal."

"I don't think that [myself, Thierry Henry or others] have the ambition to claim the spotlight at Arsenal, because it's not possible. Things must be done naturally.

"I don't know the demands of everyone, but in my case I just expected a call to ask me if I would go and learn my craft at Arsenal -- without taking the place of the U21 or U19 coach, because they are good at their job.

"I've never spoken [with Wenger]. At the same time, he does what he wants."

Vieira guided NYCFC to the MLS playoffs for the first time in their brief history this season. The former France international began his post-playing career by managing Manchester City's Elite Development Squad before moving to New York. When asked if he might one day succeed current boss Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium, Vieira said he was only thinking of New York.

"You don't know what will happen, but I'm learning this job," he said. "There are people who really believe in me a lot and that gives me the desire to work well so as to not disappoint them.

"We'll see what the future holds. It's very encouraging. The idea is to stay in the MLS and to see how things go. What is needed is to be best and see the options and offers."