Arsenal insist Unai Emery – and not Max Allegri – was their ‘unanimous choice’ to succeed Arsene Wenger at the helm.
Allegri was seen as a leading contender to replace Wenger, but the Gunners ultimately plumped for Emery, best known for guiding Sevilla to three consecutive Europa Leagues and Paris Saint-Germain to another treble over the past season.
Arsenal insist Unai Emery – and not Max Allegri – was their ‘unanimous choice’ to succeed Arsene Wenger at the helm.
Allegri was seen as a leading contender to replace Wenger, but the Gunners ultimately plumped for Emery, best known for guiding Sevilla to three consecutive Europa Leagues and Paris Saint-Germain to another treble over the past season.
“Unai has an outstanding track record of success throughout his career, has developed some of the best young talent in Europe and plays an exciting, progressive style of football that fits Arsenal perfectly.” chief executive Ivan Gazidis told the club’s official website.
His hard-working and passionate approach and his sense of values on and off the pitch make him the ideal person to take us forward.
“We conducted a confidential, wide-ranging and rigorous search involving extensive background references, data and video analysis, and personal meetings with all the candidates we shortlisted.
“All were interested in the position and we were unanimous in our choice of Unai to drive the next chapter of our history.”
That was reiterated by owner Stan Kroenke, who added: “We’re delighted to welcome Unai to Arsenal. He’s a proven winner.
“We’re confident that he is the right person for the job and that he will work to deliver the triumphs our fans, staff and everyone who cares about Arsenal want.
“Several things stood out during his interview and the entire process; his football knowledge, energy, determination and love of the game.
“His familiarity with our club and our players, the Premier League and the game in Europe were all very impressive.
“He shares our vision to move forward, to build on the platform created by Arsene Wenger and help this club enjoy greater success.”