Mikael Silvestre believes Arsenal can challenge for the Premier League title once again under Mikel Arteta.
The former Gunners and Manchester United defender has been impressed with what he has seen from Arteta and his players so far this season.
Arsenal were edged out 1-0 at Manchester City at the weekend but sit fifth in the league table with three wins and two defeats.
“As soon as Arteta arrived, the mood at Arsenal was positive," said Silvestre, speaking exclusively to 888Sport.
"Everybody was happy with the training regime and the changes being made: his philosophy and how he was taking charge of the sessions.
"You can see the players are convinced and they are applying themselves to that philosophy.
"It takes time but they are on the right track by keeping Aubameyang and adding quality to the squad. I think they should end up in the top four.”
You can read the full 888sport interview with Silvestre here.
Silvestre, who made 43 appearances for Arsenal between 2008 and 2010, added: “I can’t single out one individual. They all try to build from the back and for that you need to be courageous to take the ball from your goalkeeper.
"They are playing as a strong unit as a back four which is good going forward because in the past the defence has been criticised.
"For that you must look at the reasons why. They have had injuries and suspensions and poor form from players.
"Once you have a consistent back four and build from that it is much easier to gain confidence and results. It is very important too for the goalkeeper."
So, could Arsenal be potential title challengers?
“It is too early to see who will be there at the end in the title race," said Silvestre.
"But it will be a stronger top six because clubs who have had a bad year don’t tend to have a second bad year.
"It is exciting to see we will have Arsenal and Spurs and (Manchester) City and Liverpool involved in the race. Everton also.
"It is very good for the fans to see these big clubs with so much quality fighting."
