'Emery isn't at Arsenal to finish fifth' - Keown feels Man City scalp is possible

New Arsenal boss Unai Emery is “not here to finish fifth” says Martin Keown, with the Spaniard capable of overseeing a flying start to the season against Manchester City.

After 22 years under the guidance of Arsene Wenger, a new era has been opened at Emirates Stadium.

Another experienced tactician has inherited the managerial reins, with trust being placed in the coaching ability of former Sevilla and Paris Saint-Germain boss Emery.

He is being charged with the task of improving fortunes in north London, as Arsenal enter a second season without Champions League football, and Keown believes there is cause for optimism.

The former Gunners defender told the Daily Mail: “It may be all change but there will always be expectation.

“Unai Emery is a successful manager who is not here to finish fifth. I’m not saying they are ready for a title challenge but the top four has to be the objective.

“I’ve been impressed with Emery. He has worked his players hard in pre-season.

“Arsenal’s away form was embarrassing but they will have a better balance this year. They have a warrior in Sokratis while Lucas Torreira can bring bite to the midfield.”

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Arsenal have been handed the toughest of starts to their 2018-19 Premier League campaign, as they prepare to open things up against reigning champions Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola’s record-breaking champions looked to be moving through the gears in a Community Shield victory over Chelsea, but Keown believes Arsenal can claim a notable scalp on home soil.

He added: “Unlike their rivals, Arsenal only had one player in the World Cup semi-finals. City had seven.

“When they travel to the Emirates on Sunday the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling may be unavailable.

“Arsenal will not have a better chance to beat the all-conquering champions. Do so, and they could steal a march on their rivals.”