Mikel Arteta says he was "shocked" by the split between fans and the team upon his return to Emirates Stadium, with it his belief that Arsenal have been "badly damaged".
The Gunners turned to their former captain to steady the ship after deciding to sack Unai Emery in November 2019.
Emery was relieved of his duties after overseeing a seven-match winless run, having been hired to replace legendary manager Arsene Wenger 18 months earlier.
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Arteta's only previous coaching experience had come at Manchester City, where he spent three years as Pep Guardiola's assistant, but he has since proven his credentials by transforming Arsenal back into a formidable force.