Pires reveals Arteta job fears: He´s in an ejection seat at Arsenal

Mikel Arteta is “in an ejection seat” at Arsenal after the north London giants’ wretched start to the season, according to Robert Pires.

The Gunners headed into Saturday’s clash with Chelsea sitting a dismal 15th in the Premier League table after losing eight of their opening 14 games.

Former Arsenal hero Pires, a member of Arsene Wenger’s great ‘Invincibles’ squad, says it is hard to believe they have slumped so badly.

“I find it difficult to explain this situation,” Pires said, speaking to Ouest France.

“When you’re in a negative spiral, it’s very complicated to get out of it.”

Pires said the Chelsea game was set up to be “important for the future of the club”, and he has little doubt manager Arteta is fighting to stay in his job.

“I know him well. I know what he does, the training he sets up, what he would like his team to develop,” Pires said.

“But on the pitch, it does not work. I don’t like coaches being sacked but unfortunately that’s what happens when there are bad results. He’s in an ejection seat.”