In addition to another victory, Arsenal’s final preseason game offered a first look at their exciting new £42 million acquisition, Riccardo Calafiori.
The Emirates audience welcomed the Italian with great enthusiasm when he entered the game. In his 26-minute cameo, the 22-year-old made multiple drives up field and an impressive run back on the break, which combined with David Raya’s save to thwart a Lyon attacker.
The fans, as well as the Italian, who became the north London club’s lone summer addition at the end of July after leaving Bologna, were both praised by manager Mikel Arteta.
Arteta remarked, “I just love it when the fans react like that to one of your own.” “The instant you feel it, it’s love, you’re respected, and they’ve got your back.” And what a fantastic platform that is for someone to join our club.
His ability to play in two or three places and, particularly in attack, occupy diverse spaces due to his solid defence, adds a great deal of versatility.
Arsenal ‘s final match of pre-season delivered yet another win, as well as a first look at their exciting £42million signing Riccardo Calafiori
William Saliba and Gabriel netted from set pieces as the Gunners cruised to a 2-0 win
In his team’s “extraordinary” performance against the Ligue 1 team, Mikel Arteta showered accolades.
It’s incredible to witness his physicality and press when engaging in a battle. He’s a player who can help us; he accomplished a lot last year.
Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka made their preseason debuts and produced the kind of set pieces that so plagued their opponents the previous season.
Rice appeared focused and prepared for the game, despite finding it difficult to keep up with Bayer Leverkusen during their triumph last Wednesday. Along with making several excellent tackles, he passed the ball with precision and progression.
Finally, two of his perfectly timed corner kicks ended up as goals, capping off an incredible performance. “Overall, I believe the preseason has gone well,” Arteta stated.
The two games we’ve played here at the Emirates have been quite competitive, and it was a success.
The team was outstanding; we performed at our best, particularly in the first half.
Calafiori was introduced as a second-half sub after completing his switch from Bologna
Arteta disclosed Jurrien Timber is anticipated to resume full training in the upcoming days following a prolonged period of absence due to injury.
We held onto it, but in the second half, we let up a little. The circumstances were both favorable and difficult. Overall, I’m really happy.
Arteta revealed that although full back Takehiro Tomiyasu is expected to be out for “weeks,” versatile defender Jurrien Timber is anticipated to resume training shortly after overcoming his foot issue.