Robert Pires has put the pressure on Arsenal players to respond to Freddie Ljungberg's style after Unai Emery's sacking.
Emery was dismissed as Arsenal boss on Friday morning, with club chiefs appointing Ljungberg as interim manager while they seek a long-term replacement.
Pires says that Emery leaving was a decision that had to happen, and that Ljungberg's first session in charge on Friday morning was received well.
Former Arsenal star Pires has remained involved with the club in an informal manager following his retirement as a player, and is often involved with training sessions.
Asked if Unai Emery’s departure was unavoidable, Pires told Canal Plus: "I think sadly yes.
"Owing to the bad results, the club was unfortunately on a bad run, both in the league and the Europa League.
"So a change was needed and when we speak about changes, it is usually the manager who pays. So today a new adventure begins with Freddie taking the reins.
"He knows this club inside out, we have played with him, we know what he is capable of.
"I can say that the first training session that he took went very very well. Now it is up the players to respond and that Freddie’s message gets through to them well.”
