Sunday 23 September 2018 07:08, UK
Unai Emery insists he is prioritising trophies over a top-four Premier League finish during his first season as Arsenal head coach.
Under previous manager Arsene Wenger, the Gunners were criticised for what some saw as the emphasis they placed on finishing in the top four each season, rather than competing for titles.
However, they have finished outside the top four for the last two seasons - thereby missing out on a Champions League place - and Emery is focused on halting that run.
Asked whether he would rather return to the Champions League by finishing in the top four or winning the Europa League, he replied: "One choice? For me, the Europa League is very important.
"It is one title and I think for us, every title is the best way, the best performance, the best future."
However, the former Sevilla boss - who won three Europa Leagues in a row during his time in Spain - is not underestimating the importance of the Premier League.
"The Premier League is very important because I think it is the first competition of importance for us, because that gives us the big credibility on this season," he said.
"Thirty-eight matches give us and give them (opponents) the clarity to show who is the best for the top four.
"It is clear that we have a very, very competitive team to do that - I am confident in my team."
