The Togo striker has blossomed with the added responsibility on his shoulders this season following the departure of Thierry Henry.
Adebayor admitted he found it hard to settle in the early stages of his Emirates Stadium career and suffered a loss of confidence in front of goal.
But a conversation with manager Arsene Wenger persuaded the forward that his long-term future lay with the Premier League leaders.
Adebayor told L'Equipe: "When I joined Arsenal I was not good. I missed easy chances in front of goal and lost trust in myself.
"I needed to improve my game too, my ball control was bad. I was a little awkward in front of goal.
"The critics have affected me. I wanted to show they were wrong. People often forget I am only 23 years old.
"I had a talk with Arsène Wenger. He told me I will be a key player this season and he convinced me to stay.
"However, the coach made me understand I had to improve. So I worked twice as hard.
"Now people can see the new Adebayor. I feel I have reached a new step.
"In a way, Henry's departure has liberated me. Today I know I will play, so I can dare much more.
"Deep inside of me, I never wanted to leave. Arsenal is a family club, where I hope to end my career.
"The team is young and we want to win a lot of trophies together."
