Unai Emery has spoken out about his conversation with Jack Wilshere earlier in the summer, which resulted in the midfielder’s departure from Arsenal.

Wilshere previously talked about his discussion with the new Arsenal head coach in his post on Instagram. The midfielder explained that he came away from the conversation feeling that it would be very difficult for him to play regular first-team football at the club.

At a press conference on Thursday, Emery gave further details of exactly how Wilshere reached that conclusion.

“The conversation with Wilshere was a very good conversation, very directly, together,” said Emery. “I explained to him my opinion and how I wanted to create the team, and I wasn’t sure he was going to play in the 11 players.

“Also he explained to me that the decision is not easy for him, but he wanted to chose the best option for him, and every time it is with respect. I know this player is important here for the supporters and he grew up here in Arsenal, but I can’t guarantee him a place in the starting 11. It was a tactical, technical decision.

“It is for that reason that he chose to leave here, and I respect this.”

It was important that player and coach had this honest and open discussion before Wilshere made any decisions over his future. Signing a new deal just to sit on the bench and then kick up a fuss over a lack of game time is the last thing Arsenal need, and doesn’t sound very constructive for the 26-year-old either.

Arsenal need to focus on the players that will give them the best chance of success in the coming years, and clearly Emery preferred to bring in players like Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi for Wilshere’s position.

Whilst we all hope Arsenal players feel respected and valued by their coach, it’s pointless lying about their standing in the team just to keep them happy. Nonetheless, we wish Wilshere success with his new club.