The former Gunners midfielder has the ability to improve the current squad and build for a brighter future, if he is to replace Unai Emery
Mikel Arteta is the right manager at the right time for Arsenal, says former Gunners striker Alan Smith.
Talks to bring in the Manchester City number two as successor to Unai Emery are continuing and confirmation of his appointment could come before the weekend.
Smith told Sky Sports that the timing is perfect and that an injection of new ideas from the former Arsenal midfielder - who has learnt his trade under serial winner Pep Guardiola - is what is badly needed to lift the gloom at the Emirates.