Arsenal compiled eight-man long-list during recruitment process before deciding upon Unai Emery

In searching for a replacement to Wenger, a dedicated three-person committee was established by the club

Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has revealed that the club compiled a long-list of eight coaches as part of their recruitment process before appointing Unai Emery as Arsene Wenger’s successor.

The Spaniard was confirmed as the new Arsenal head coach on Wednesday morning and unveiled to the press later in the day.

In searching for a replacement to Wenger, a dedicated three-person committee was established which included Gazidis, head of recruitment Sven Mislintat and head of football relations Raul Sanllehi.

Arsenal interviewed eight coaches all of whom “were interested until the end” in the vacancy, Gazidis confirmed.

“I’d like to give you a bit of background into the process that led us here today,” Arsenal’s chief executive said. “We formed a three-person committee lead by me with Sven Mislintat and Raul Sanllehi.

“We wanted progressive, entertaining football, a personality that fits with Arsenal’s values and a record of developing young players… pushing players and demanding more from them.

“We analysed and looked through – on the basis that every coach in the world would be interested – a lot of coaches and made a long list of eight coaches, all of whom were interested and who took place in extensive, in-depth interviews with the three of us. None of them withdrew their interest; all of them were interested until the end.

“We interviewed Unai on 10 May as part of that process, making a unanimous recommendation to the board on 18 May with a 100-page dossier that supported his candidacy.

“We met with London-based members of the board this week and then flew to Atlanta to meet Stan and Josh Kroenke. All of the board members were energised by the recommendation and enthusiastically supported it.”

Upon his unveiling, Unai thanked Wenger for the legacy he had established at Arsenal.

“Thank you Arsene Wenger for your legacy,” he said. “For all coach in the world is a reference and learn with him.

“I learn with him all the things in football. My English is not very best now. I want make an effort for speak with you to the supporters for explain my idea, explain my ambition, explain know I am very excited by this opportunity, a big club, a great city, a grand stadium and also a great player for this world.”