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Arsenal news: Unai Emery shock - Gianfranco Zola expected different Gunners boss
CHELSEA legend Gianfranco Zola admits he was surprised to see Unai Emery appointed the new head coach of Arsenal.
Arsenal news: Unai Emery was unveiled as the Gunners boss today
Emery was announced as Arsene Wenger’s successor at Arsenal this morning on a three-year deal.
The Spaniard only emerged as a serious candidate on Monday evening after former Gunners captain Mikel Arteta was the heavy favourite for the job.
Zola reckons Arteta would have been a good appointment but says Emery’s experience gives him the edge over his compatriot.
“Very much (it surprised me),” Zola told Sky Sports.
It’s not going to be easy because Arsene has left a big void, a big hole. But I’m sure he can do well
“I thought also Mikel Arteta would have been a good appointment.
“But certainly Emery has got more experience and probably is more prepared.”
Emery has had success at Valencia, Sevilla and most recently at Paris Saint-Germain.
And Zola is expecting him to fill the void left by former manager Wenger at Arsenal.
Arsenal announce new manager Unai Emery
Arsenal news: Unai Emery will be a success at the Emirates, reckons Zola
“He’s got all the credentials,” Zola added.
“He’s done pretty well, in Sevilla in particular. So he certainly has the qualities.
“It’s not going to be easy because Arsene has left a big void, a big hole.
“But I’m sure he can do well.”
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