"That is very important for the club, to be the best team in the Premier League and also in the world," says new Arsenal head coach
Thursday 24 May 2018 06:36, UK
Unai Emery says a return to the Champions League is crucial for Arsenal as he begins work as the new head coach at the Emirates.
The Spaniard was announced as Arsene Wenger's successor at the Emirates on Wednesday following Arsene Wenger's departure after 22 years at the club.
Arsenal finished sixth in the Premier League last season, consigning the club to a second consecutive season in the Europa League, and Emery says a return to the top four is vital.
"Our objective is to be among the best teams in Europe, to win titles and to be in the elite of European teams," he said.
"I also want the team to make the fans proud. I know they are already and I want them to be even more so.
"I believe in the players who are here. The objective is to work hard together.
"That is very important for the club after two years outside the Champions League to work in this way. To be the best club, the best team in the Premier League and also in the world."
Arsenal's trophy haul over the last decade is limited to three FA Cups, and they have rarely competed for the title during that period.
However, Emery says he intends to make Arsenal more competitive, both at home and abroad.
Asked how he would improve the Gunners, he explained: "I think that's about battling for every title. That's something in Arsenal's history and in my history as well. I want that to continue.
"All the titles are important for us. I think we can be and we want to be a candidate for them.
"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."
Speaking at his first press conference as Arsenal head coach, Emery would not be drawn on the club's plans in the transfer market this summer, saying he needed to speak to the players individually.
"In the conversations with Ivan Gazidis and the people who work here it was very important to get all the information of the club and know how we will develop this team", said Emery.
"I know all the players. I think all the players will be very important. I want to speak with all the players face to face."
Emery was also asked about the future of Jack Wilshere, whose Arsenal contract expires at the end of next month.
"I don't want to speak about individual players today. This thing is big, it's a big player", confessed Emery.
