Once upon a time, Arsenal's engine was powered by the old guard - the likes of Patrick Vieira, Thierry Henry and Tony Adams set the standard impossibly high.
The last decade has been something of a wilderness for the Gunners as, year by year, they gradually lost the leaders that made the club what they are. Out went William Gallas, Robin van Persie, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Vermaelen, Lauren Koscielny. Arsenal fans have been crying out for a figurehead who can push the club back into title contention after watching so many skippers try and fail.