Henry announced on Monday that he would not be renewing his contract at New York Red Bulls

Arsène Wenger, the Arsenal manager, has called on the French Football Federation to grant Thierry Henry a farewell appearance for his country in France’s mooted friendly against Brazil in March, suggesting it is “the minimum” they could do to honour the 37-year-old as he prepares for his retirement.

Henry announced on Monday that he would not be renewing his contract at New York Red Bulls after four years in the United States. He insisted that he would take some time to contemplate his next step, maintaining that he will continue to be involved in football, most likely as a coach or an executive than as a player.

The manager who not only handed the forward his chance as a professional while at Monaco but oversaw