'Change in Arsenal management exciting'

Mertesacker became the manager of Arsenal's academy this year and wants to form a bond with Emery that will allow them to "be honest with each other". 

The German centre-back captained the 'Gunners' for two years under Arsene Wenger, though now says he is looking forward to a 'different challenge' under Emery.

"The easiest way for me would have been if Arsene had stayed. He would have trusted me and given me an easy way. But I am excited about the new stuff and the change in management.

"Unai Emery is a hard coach and is totally focused on what happens on the grass. That is his main focus - to get us back in the Champions League.

"It is exciting that I am part of that process. People want to see results but we need to make sure the change happens in the right way and not to rush it too much."