Arsene Wenger says Arsenal can win the Premier League title in new manager Unai Emery's first season in charge.
Wenger ended his 22-year reign in the summer with his final seasons littered with protests against his employment as the club slide down the table. His last campaign at the helm concluded with a worst-ever finish of sixth.
Arsenal lost their opening two games under Emery, against Manchester City and Chelsea, but won 11 on the trot until Sunday's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace.
The Gunners sit four points off league-leaders City after 10 games and when asked by talkSPORT if they could win it, Wenger replied "Why not?
"When you look at last season at home we won 15, drew two and lost two - it's away we were not good enough.
"But overall the quality's there. They have a chance - but at the moment we have some other teams who look very strong as well."
Arsenal have not won the title since 2004 but Wenger won the FA Cup in three of his last four seasons.
He told Sky Sports: "When Arsenal win I am happy. I felt I worked very hard and I think I left it in good shape. After that, I'm a supporter like anyone else - I want them to win football games.
"As a manager you have an influence, not only on the careers of players, the style of play and results but on the structure and impact you give to the club and overall that is very important - that the club can always continue at a very good level."
The 69-year-old has watched football from afar since leaving his role in north London but is now ready for a new role.
Asked when he would be back in management, the Frenchman told said: "At the beginning of the year. It will seem odd to go somewhere else but I can't tell you (where) because I don't know where I'll be. I'll be somewhere - but I don't know where.
"I have had a good rest and watched football a lot. I have many good memories, so I miss them."
