Villarreal manager Unai Emery is still a huge admirer of Arsenal.
The Spaniard will face his former club in the Europa League semi-finals.
Speaking ahead of Thursday's first leg at Estadio de la Ceramica, Emery insists he has 'great memories' from his time in north London.
"Arsenal's history is renowned throughout the world," Emery told UEFA. "I am lucky enough to have coached over there, although it ended in unwanted circumstances.
"I have great memories from my time at Arsenal. We experienced great moments together on the pitch, like reaching and preparing for the [Europa League] final against Chelsea.
"Those are great memories but now we are on different teams."
Speaking about his former players, Emery admits to keeping a close eye on their progress since he was sacked from the club in November 2019.
"I have great memories from my time at Arsenal. We experienced great moments together on the pitch, like reaching and preparing for the [Europa League] final against Chelsea.
"Those are great memories but now we are on different teams.
"[Nicolas] Pepe is also an important player, who I think is settling and getting more and more confident.
"Then you have the younger players such as [Emile] Smith Rowe. Smith Rowe played the pre-season with us at the age of 17, and he has gradually grown after loan spells away.
"You also have [Bernd] Leno, who is a great goalkeeper and good with his feet. He has significant experience."
