The pair have had major disputes during the Portuguese coach’s three-year stay in England but Wenger holds no hard feelings, maintaining Mourinho would be missed.

Chelsea have moved quickly to appoint Grant, who had joined the club as director of football.

Wenger met Grant when he was coach of the Israel national side, and feels he can be a success in the English club game – if given the time by billionaire owner Roman Abramovich.

“He came here to watch training when he was the coach of Israel. So we met. I like the man,” said the Arsenal boss.

“He is a very intelligent man with a big knowledge of the game.

“I think he has the quality to do it, but it has changed his position.

“He was employed as a director of football, not manager. So it is a surprise

“Certainly he can be successful – but I am not sure if he is a permanent manager.”

Wenger added: “He has the resources, he has the players, he has the knowledge, so why should he not be successful?

“When you have a sudden departure like that it becomes a bit passionate and emotional and people make a quick assessment.

“I understand that people are shocked and surprised that Mourinho left – that does not mean you have to convict the guy who comes after him.”

The events which unfolded were certainly unexpected.

Wenger continued: “It has come brutally, but that is always the case, because no-one says they will sack you in 30 days.

“Many times it is expected because you haven’t done well for a long period.

“In this case, it is brutal and surprising, and was more down to internal differences than bad results.

“Internal differences are always very difficult to assess from outside.

“Maybe you have heard rumours about it, but you think ’Is it true’?

“Is it because Mourinho doesn’t agree with the direction (received from the club’s hierarchy), is it because the direction does not agree with Mourinho? It is difficult to judge.”

Mourinho is set to land a reported £20million pay-off as compensation for the remaining three years of his contract.

Wenger feels the former Porto boss deserves great credit for the impact he had on English football, winning every trophy.

“You want to be in the best league in the world, and you want to be confronted with the best managers,” said Wenger.

“Mourinho coming to Chelsea brought another club fighting for the top level. Before, it was Arsenal and Man United, but then with Chelsea and Liverpool and now some other clubs joining in, so it makes a good league really interesting.

“He was a top-class manager, a guy of quality and belief, but I am certain he will be replaced by another top-class manager. No doubt Chelsea have enough resources.”