Emery reflects on first FA Cup game as Arsenal boss
Arsenal boss Unai Emery has reflected on his first game in the FA Cup as a manager after watching his side thrash Blackpool 3-0 away from home on Saturday evening.
The Gunners have done well to bounce back with two wins this week, in response to the 5-1 defeat against Liverpool who are the bookies’ favourites to end up winning the Premier League title this season.
After managing to thrash Fulham 4-1 at the Emirates stadium on Tuesday, Arsenal’s next assignment was a trip to Blackpool as the squad took a break from league action.
Considering the fact that the Gunners exited the competition at this particular stage against Nottingham Forest last season, it was not unreasonable to suggest that the visit to Blackpool could have been a tricky affair.
However a double from youngster Joseph Willock and a late effort from Alex Iwobi saw Arsenal win 3-0 on the night as they secured a place in the next round of the FA Cup.
Following the final whistle, Unai Emery reflected on what was his first involvement in the world’s oldest cup competition.
“I am very proud of the players today, of our work. Because first, the adaptation to the circumstances and the atmosphere here.” the Arsenal manager said after game
“I think every player was with very big commitment, very good concentration in the 90 minutes, being competitive to impose, little-by-little, our positioning and also sometimes our quality.
“But it’s very important first that with the respect, the adaptation to their game plan: the long ball, the second action, in the duels. We did that and I am very happy for every player and their work today.”