Mesut Ozil has failed to hold down a place in the first-team this season, with Emery regularly demoting him to the bench.
The former Germany international’s lack of first-team football has prompted suggestions he could leave the club at the end of the season, with moves to Inter Milan and Fenerbahce repeatedly being talked up.
Pires – who was part of Arsenal’s Invincibles side – is a big fan of Ozil, despite the fact he’s gone missing in several games.
And the Frenchman it would be a mistake for Emery to allow the 30-year-old to leave the Emirates.
“It’s vital that Emery finds a space for Ozil in the first team,” he said. “It would be a big step backwards for the club if they sell him.
“He recently extended his contract and there’s no arguing that he is one of, if not, the best player in Arsenal’s squad.
“There seems to be a communication breakdown between Emery and Ozil and whatever the issue is, it has been allowed to drag out over the season.
“For me, it’s vital that they put whatever’s happened behind them and they move on.
“If they put it behind them and start fresh next season, having Ozil behind [Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang and [Alexandre] Lacazette will be a formidable force. Arsenal have a fantastic box-to-box player in [Aaron] Ramsey, who will do the running for Ozil which allows him to focus on his own game. There’s no reason why Ozil shouldn’t be in the side.”
Arsenal are reliant on Ozil now more than ever due to the imminent departure of Aaron Ramsey, who has signed a pre-contract agreement with Juventus.
Pires, like many Arsenal fans, is sad to see the Welshman leave, saying: “I’m upset that Ramsey is leaving Arsenal and it’s a shame the player and Arsenal couldn’t come to an agreement as he will be missed.
“The club and players have to respect his decision and I’m glad he still receives a warm welcome with the Arsenal fans as I feel he still has a key role to play in how this season will end up.
“Emery needs to utilise Ramsey as often as possible until he leaves in the summer and he’s key to Arsenal finishing in the top four this season.
“I think Ramsey has been excellent for Arsenal and I would be surprised if he wasn’t given a warm send-off from the fans and club.
“It’s a great chance for Ramsey to play with some new players, including the likes of [Cristiano] Ronaldo and I wish him the best of luck.”
Arsenal return to action on Saturday afternoon, welcoming their bitter rivals Tottenham to the Emirates.