Arsenal announces its new manager, Unai Emery, in a press conference for the first time in almost 22 years.
The Spanish former footballer and manager was welcomed in the Emirates stadium, with every TV screen flashing a simple message, “Welcome Unaiâ€. About a hundred members of national media waited for the right moment to meet the new man who will replace Arsene Wenger.
When he arrived, the new Gunners boss uttered his first words, “Good afternoon. Thank you Kroenke family, for me it was a very good meeting, a very good conversation.†Emery continued, “Thank you also to the chairman, the board. We had a meeting Monday morning and I feel they feel, with their heart, Arsenal.â€
He was introduced formally to the media by Arsenal’s chief executive Ivan Gazidis. Gazidis stressed that the new head coach of Arsenal stood out in terms of knowledge and personality. He scored top goals during the recruitment process.
During the hour and a half press conference, Emery expressed gratitude towards the former Gunners manager saying, “Thank you Arsene Wenger for your legacy – I learn with him, all the things in football. For all the coaches in the world, he is a reference.†“My English is not the very best now. I want to explain my idea and ambition. I am very excited for this opportunity,†he added.
For the members of the press, it was a bold and impressive move for Emery to communicate in English. This won’t be a problem in terms of his ability to convey his message with the players, as his command in the English language will improve over time.
Emery did not divulge any information on style of play, team overhaul, or player transfers as he “…want to speak individually with all the players face to face. I don’t want to speak about individual players today.â€
Gazidis articulated that Emery might just be what Arsenal needs at the moment, especially when it seems the Gunners feel too comfortable at their home in the Emirates Stadium. What Gazidis found in the new manager is the determination Emery has to bring back Arsenal to the top of the Premier League.
Emery stated, “I don’t promise today we will win but I can promise you we will work hard and we will work together. We will transmit our emotion and we will fight for the objectives.
Unai Emery was Paris Saint-Germain’s manager before moving to Arsenal.