Arsenal have confirmed the appointment of Unai Emery as the club’s new head coach.
The Spaniard – who left Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season despite winning a domestic treble – has signed a two-year deal at the Emirates Stadium.
He becomes just the Gunners’ second manager since 1996 after Arsene Wenger’s 22-year reign was brought to an end in the wake of Arsenal’s sixth-placed finish in the Premier League.
“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,” said Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis following the appointment.
“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.”
Emery’s appointment comes following talks with the Arsenal hierarchy on Monday, with the north London outfit hopeful he can lead them back to the top of the English game following a series of underwhelming campaigns.
“I am thrilled to be joining one of the great clubs in the game,” said Emery.
“Arsenal is known and loved throughout the world for its style of play, its commitment to young players, the fantastic stadium, the way the club is run.
“I’m very excited to be given the responsibility to start this important new chapter in Arsenal’s history. I have met Stan and Josh Kroenke and it’s clear they have great ambitions for the club and are committed to bringing future success.
“I’m excited about what we can do together and I look forward to giving everyone who loves Arsenal some special moments and memories.”
Emery – who won the Europa League on three occasions with Sevilla – arrives in north London following a tumultuous selection process for Wenger’s successor.
The Gunners had hoped they could tempt Massimiliano Allegri away from Juventus before he committed his future to the Serie A champions while an agreement had been reached with Manchester City coach Mikel Arteta.
Emery, however, has emerged as the chosen one following a U-turn on Arteta’s suitability and despite having been turned down following an interview for the previously vacant West Ham job.
It is understood his lack of English formed part of the reasoning behind the Irons instead opting for Manuel Pellegrini, though those same concerns are not shared by the Arsenal board.
Emery’s language abilities will be on show on Wednesday afternoon as he and Gazidis hold a press conference as part of his official unveiling.
