Mathieu Flamini: Watching Arsenal struggle was frustrating

Mathieu Flamini admits he grew “frustrated” watching Arsenal fail to win silverware during his spell at AC Milan before his return to north London.

The French midfielder left Emirates Stadium to join the Serie A side on a free transfer back in 2008 and spent five years at the San Siro before returning to Arsenal in the summer.

And Flamini, who had enjoyed four seasons with the Gunners before his move to Milan, is determined to help Arsene Wenger’s men end their long wait for a trophy this term.

“Of course I watched Arsenal a lot from Italy, and I was frustrated as well,” Flamini told Arsenal’s website.

“When you look at the team, you see all that quality, players playing amazing football, and being so close to be successful, yet not winning anything. It’s not easy to watch that.

“What’s important is to work hard, and to work on the spirit of the team, because I think that makes the difference.

“Of course quality is important, but just as important is the collective of the team – to work together, attack together and defend together. That will make the difference.”

Flamini has been one of Arsenal’s top performers since his return to the club on a free transfer over the summer.

And although the Gunners have lost the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie since Flamini’s exit in 2008, the midfielder is committed to helping Arsenal continue their strong start to the season.

“Yes, lots of the players left, but some of them are still here from when I was at Arsenal last time,” he continued.

“Also a lot of the people who were working here back then are still here, and the philosophy is just the same.

“On top of everything is the coach. Arsene Wenger is still here and he is the one who educates everyone. He has been here 17 years now, he means a lot to this club and he’s still in charge with the same philosophy.”