Granit Xhaka has admitted that it will take around four years before Arsenal challenge Liverpool for a Premier League title.
Jurgen Klopp's men claimed a record 97 points in the league last season, finishing one point off champions Manchester City, while Arsenal finished 27 points behind the Reds in fifth place.
That gulf in class between the two teams was clear to see during a 3-1 win for Liverpool over the Gunners at Anfield last weekend.
Reflecting on the difference between the two teams, Xhaka told the Evening Standard: "We know they [Liverpool's players and Klopp] have been working together for three or four years.
"We had new staff last year, we are improving our way and we need some time as well. With Liverpool, the first Premier League season with Klopp was not the best. You can see how they've improved and how it can work if you are together more than three or four years.
"They are a good example of where we can be in three or four years but we want to make a good season this year and be back in the top four."
Unai Emery has also spoken effusively of Liverpool in the past, noting how the team benefited from giving Klopp time to implement his ideals since arriving in 2015.
Arsenal face another huge test early in the season as they take on Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates on Sunday afternoon.
Leo Nieboer
