Thierry Henry in frame for Wales job with FAW confident that salary demands will not create problems

The FAW terminated Rob Page’s tenure last Friday after his three-and-a-half years in charge, primarily due to Wales' failure to qualify for Euro 2024. The association plans to take a measured approach in selecting a successor, with the next competitive fixture scheduled for September, when Wales begins their Nations League campaign at home against Turkey.

According to the BBC, Henry has emerged as a frontrunner for the role. He is currently overseeing France’s Under-21 team and is preparing to lead them in the Paris Olympics next month. His connection to Wales extends beyond these roles, as he studied for his coaching badges with the FAW.

Former Wales striker Robert Earnshaw expressed his support for Henry’s potential appointment on BBC Wales’ Elis James' Feast of Football podcast. Earnshaw highlighted Henry’s deep understanding of Welsh football and praised his football acumen, which he observed firsthand during their time together on the FAW coaching course.

"I spent some time with Thierry on the coaching course a couple of years ago because he was on the Welsh FA course," he began.

"He knows [FAW chief football officer] David Adams and the set-up, and he understands Welsh football. The one thing that stood out when I was sat with Thierry was his football brain is brilliant.

"With France Under-21s and the Olympic team, he understands young players. He would raise the bar and the level. I don't know whether he would want it. I could see someone like Thierry doing it. His football brain is brilliant, he's so sharp, advanced and has got great ideas."

Henry’s illustrious playing career includes two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and numerous individual accolades during his tenure at Arsenal, where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer. Additionally, he won two La Liga titles and the Champions League with Barcelona. Transitioning to coaching, Henry has served as an assistant to the Belgian national team and taken on managerial roles at Monaco and Montreal Impact.

Some officials within the FAW are advocating for the appointment of a high-profile manager, similar to their previous strategy with Ryan Giggs in 2018. Giggs, a former Wales and Manchester United captain brought significant attention to the team. Henry’s appointment would be even more prestigious, given his status as one of the greatest players of his generation. Despite the FAW’s financial limitations, they believe that Henry’s ongoing media and sponsorship engagements could make the role financially viable for him.