Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis welcomed Unai Emery as his club’s manager on Wednesday by claiming the Gunners’ job is the “most attractive” in world football.
Emery is Arsenal’s first new boss in 22 years after replacing Arsene Wenger following the Frenchman’s departure at the end of the season.
The 46-year-old, who left Paris Saint Germain after winning the domestic treble this term, arrives at the Emirates Stadium with Arsenal in turmoil after a woeful season saw them finish sixth in the Premier League.
Arsenal, who haven’t won the English title since 2004, trailed a massive 37 points behind champions Manchester City as they failed to qualify for the Champions League for a second successive season.
Yet,speaking at Emery’s maiden press conference, Gazidis made the remarkable claim that managing Arsenal is even more attractive than taking charge at the likes of City, Spanish champions Barcelona or Champions League holders Real Madrid.
Gazidis played a key role in Emery’s appointment, along with head of football relations Raul Sanllehi and head of recruitment Sven Mislintat.