New Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is surprised by the slide the club has endured since his original departure.

The Spaniard, who ended his playing career in north London in 2016, got a close-up view of Arsenal 's recent decline when Manchester City won 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium last Sunday.

“It wasn't only the performance, it was the atmosphere and energy that I perceived when I was walking around the place," said Arteta.

“That worried me a little bit.

“I understand that they are used to ­success and fighting for things, and at the moment it's ­difficult for the fans to swallow the situation.

“Has the club lost its way? That is what I'm ­sensing from the outside. I would like to make some steps to start to ­understand the reasons why.

“They have to be so united, that ­the dressing room is ­untouchable. So let me help."

Asked if his new players had a mentality problem, Arteta said: “I am about to find out.

“I want to start from scratch and understand the history and why this is happening.

“If we give them the tactical culture, they will be more ­secure when they go to the football pitch to perform."