Unai Emery says he was surprised by Tottenham’s decision to sack Mauricio Pochettino.
The Argentine was given his marching orders on Tuesday night and replaced by former Chelsea and Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho less than 24 hours later.
Pochettino’s sacking could shine the spotlight brighter on Emery, whose side are winless in four Premier League games and host Southampton on Saturday, LIVE on talkSPORT 2.
The Spaniard said: “It’s a surprise how the relationship with Pochettino ended, but I don’t know exactly why.
“[Mourinho] is a very good coach. His career is very strong with titles and experience. I also think Pochettino’s work at Tottenham was amazing.
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“Maybe the last matches they didn’t achieve good results, but the last year with Pochettino was perfect.
“They decided to change and I don’t know the reason, but we have our way and they have their way.”
Below, you can read the best bits from Emery’s press conference…
On Granit Xhaka’s situation
“He’s coming back better. His mindset is better and this morning I had a very good conversation with him.
“My objective is for him to come back helping us and convincing everyone that he is going to be better in the short or long future with us.
“He’s feeling better and his team is Arsenal now. He wants to come back with the confidence of the supporters.
“We are going to decide tomorrow [if he plays] but I want to give him confidence and comfort.”
On Nicholas Pepe’s fitness
“Pepe arrived late because of travel and didn’t train with the group, but trained inside. He will be ready for Saturday.”
On Arsenal’s form around
“I am optimistic and I know we need to improve our performances.
“Above all we need to play better, control the game. We are not losing at home, but we are not convincing people.”
On injuries
“[Rob] Holding, [Bukayo] Saka and [Sead] Kolasinac have not trained. They could train tomorrow.”
On Southampton
“Every team is difficult in the Premier League. They need points and are playing better away from home.
“I think they will be very motivated, but we need to impose [ourselves] and show our game plan on Saturday.
“We respect them but we have confidence in our capacity which is improving.”
