Former Arsenal star Robin van Persie has questioned the role of Unai Emery despite a dramatic 3-2 win over Vitoria in the Europa League.
The Gunners trailed twice thanks to goals from Marcus Edwards and Bruno Duarte either side of Gabriel Martinelli's header, before Nicolas Pepe saved Arsenal with two late free-kick goals.
Emery's men prevailed in the end but that didn't stop Van Persie criticising the Arsenal boss post-match. The Gunners have struggled at times this season and their former star was not holding back when asked about the progression or lack thereof since Arsene Wenger's exit last year.
Asked if Arsenal are improving under Unai Emery, Van Persie told BT Sport: "I don't think so. I don't think Emery really connects with his players.
"They are still weak on set pieces and that was back in my time as well. When you are struggling you should play man on man. Last weekend they conceded from a corner kick as well. Arsenal lose 12 or 15 points from set pieces and if you want to compete for those top places [in the Premier League], you have to sort that.
"It's not about judging the coach based on tonight, it's about the last couple of months. As a player you should be sprinting back, there is danger there.
"If you have a very strong coach and there is danger somewhere, you sprint for your life because you know if you don't, you get punished."
Arsenal legend Martin Keown added: "The message comes from the manager. He creates that urgency. He's the dynamo within the group. It's a problem for Arsenal. When they are not in possession of the ball, there is a real issue."
