Arsenal FC | 2022/23 Season

[Mamoon]

Do you think he's better than Tielemens?

I’d prefer him because he is better on the ball with a greater passing range but Tielemens is far from a bad option.

Good age, already settled in England. It seems that Arteta is not convinced or perhaps is focused on other targets for now.

 

[James]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gabriel Jesus to Arsenal, here we go! Personal terms fully agreed with his agent Marcelo Pettinati and his two partners. Gabriel signs until 2027, it’s 100% done. ️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFC</a><br><br>Arsenal already agreed £45m fee with Man City as revealed on Friday.<br><br>Edu & Arteta, key for the deal. <a href="https://t.co/06dTVNNLmM">pic.twitter.com/06dTVNNLmM</a></p>— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1541109478166347778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Rana]

Saka right wing with Jesus cf. Arsenal should do their best to get a world class left winger and then this will be a very scary front three

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal have announced the signing of goalkeeper Matt Turner on a long-term contract from MLS side New England Revolution!

 

[topspin]

Saka right wing with Jesus cf. Arsenal should do their best to get a world class left winger and then this will be a very scary front three

If we get Raphina, we can play Saka on the left. This front 3 will be menacing prospect for opposition in the PL.

Then we can rotate the front 3 with Nketiah, Martinelli and ESR.

English front 3: Jesus, Raphina and Martinelli
Brazilian front 3: Nkeitah, Saka and ESR

This would be so good.

 

[Amjid Javed]

If we get Raphina, we can play Saka on the left. This front 3 will be menacing prospect for opposition in the PL.

Then we can rotate the front 3 with Nketiah, Martinelli and ESR.

English front 3: Jesus, Raphina and Martinelli
Brazilian front 3: Nkeitah, Saka and ESR

This would be so good.

would give us pace, skill and goal threat. We still need a target man i think who would be good with hold up play, especially when playing vs low blocks and needing an ariel threat.

Are goal scoring in PL in last 3 seasons is pathetic and we need altleast another 15-20 goals in PL. Team target should be 75+ goals in 38 games. under Arteta we have failed to score in over 25% of games hes been in charge.

 

[IAJ]

If we get Raphina, we can play Saka on the left. This front 3 will be menacing prospect for opposition in the PL.

Then we can rotate the front 3 with Nketiah, Martinelli and ESR.

English front 3: Jesus, Raphina and Martinelli
Brazilian front 3: Nkeitah, Saka and ESR

This would be so good.

Other way around or I am missing something here?

 

[IAJ]

Give us £75M and take Raphinha

 

[IAJ]

^ I meant £65M

 

[IMMY69]

Other way around or I am missing something here?

They've swapped nationalities &#55357;&#56833;

 

[topspin]

Other way around or I am missing something here?

Swapped nationalities

 

[topspin]

would give us pace, skill and goal threat. We still need a target man i think who would be good with hold up play, especially when playing vs low blocks and needing an ariel threat.

Are goal scoring in PL in last 3 seasons is pathetic and we need altleast another 15-20 goals in PL. Team target should be 75+ goals in 38 games. under Arteta we have failed to score in over 25% of games hes been in charge.

Yes agreed, we don't have an aerial threat option in the number 9 position because neither Nkeitah or Jesus are tall. This is why I was hoping we'd sign Vlahovic in January.

That stat of over 25% is very high but lets not forget the reasons behind this:

- Ozil frozen out by the club (no playmaker in the 10 position to fill the gap)
- Aubameyang's loss of form in his 18 months at the club
- Playing Lacazette upfront

It looks like Fabio Viera will be Odegaard's backup. Hopefully he does well because as you say the Norwegian has been found out in some of the tough away trips.

 

[silentkiller187]

Gabriel Jesus is having a medical at Arsenal before a £45m move from Manchester City.

The 25-year-old Brazil forward has been wanted by a number of clubs, both in the Premier League and in Europe, but has opted to join the Gunners.

Jesus has made 236 appearances and scored 95 goals for City since moving from Palmeiras in January 2017.

He has won four Premier League titles during his time at Etihad Stadium, plus three League Cups and the FA Cup.

His playing time next season was likely to be limited after City signed Norway forward Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund.

Jesus previously worked with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during the latter's time as a coach at City. The Spaniard is trying to boost his side's attacking options following the departures of forwards Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on free transfers.

The club have already signed midfielder Fabio Vieira from Porto for £34.2m this summer and have also been linked with Leeds United playmaker Raphinha.

Arsenal finished fifth in the Premier League last season and narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Champions League to north London rivals Tottenham.

Arteta had to rely on his younger players for goals during a lacklustre campaign in attack - 20-year-old England international Bukayo Saka was the club's top scorer with 12 goals.

Jesus played 28 times in the Premier League last season, scoring eight goals and registering nine assists.

He has won 56 caps and scored 19 goals for Brazil, having made his senior debut in September 2016.

BBC

 

[Amjid Javed]

Yes agreed, we don't have an aerial threat option in the number 9 position because neither Nkeitah or Jesus are tall. This is why I was hoping we'd sign Vlahovic in January.

That stat of over 25% is very high but lets not forget the reasons behind this:

- Ozil frozen out by the club (no playmaker in the 10 position to fill the gap)
- Aubameyang's loss of form in his 18 months at the club
- Playing Lacazette upfront

It looks like Fabio Viera will be Odegaard's backup. Hopefully he does well because as you say the Norwegian has been found out in some of the tough away trips.

You have given valid reasons for Arsenal struggling to get goals, another major reason is the poor style of play, the slow ponderous backwards and sideways passing trying to sucker teams into pressing and arsenal passing through them. Major chance creation in games under Arteta is very low. its also a major reason Auba lost form and pepe was in effective, these guys play well when moving ball quickly and directly. Arteta always want balls to passed in one direction, we rarely switch balls from side to side quickly. Oddeagaard is good in home games against weak teams, and we actually need a Tielemens type player to play at front of a base 3 midfield. Also we need goals from midfield which we dont get. Xhaka, lokonga, elneny and partey simply dont score goals unless its a once in a life time screamer.

still alot of work to be done on Arsenals goal output.

 

[Amjid Javed]

looks like Raphina to chelsea.

Arsenal put one stupid low bid in and have then just waited around. Chelsea have offered leeds what they want.

money, + CL as well for the player.

Arsenal needed to just pay the money to have a chance. once again dithering in transfer market

the longer it went on more like a chelsea or barca would come in and get the player.

 

[MenInG]

Gabriel Jesus is having a medical at Arsenal before a £45m move from Manchester City.

The 25-year-old Brazil forward has been wanted by a number of clubs, both in the Premier League and in Europe, but has opted to join the Gunners.

Jesus has made 236 appearances and scored 95 goals for City since moving from Palmeiras in January 2017.

He has won four Premier League titles during his time at Etihad Stadium, plus three League Cups and the FA Cup.

His playing time next season was likely to be limited after City signed Norway forward Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund.

Jesus previously worked with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during the latter's time as a coach at City. The Spaniard is trying to boost his side's attacking options following the departures of forwards Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on free transfers.

The club have already signed midfielder Fabio Vieira from Porto for £34.2m this summer and have also been linked with Leeds United playmaker Raphinha.

Arsenal finished fifth in the Premier League last season and narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Champions League to north London rivals Tottenham.

Arteta had to rely on his younger players for goals during a lacklustre campaign in attack - 20-year-old England international Bukayo Saka was the club's top scorer with 12 goals.

Jesus played 28 times in the Premier League last season, scoring eight goals and registering nine assists.

He has won 56 caps and scored 19 goals for Brazil, having made his senior debut in September 2016.

BBC

 

[topspin]

looks like Raphina to chelsea.

Arsenal put one stupid low bid in and have then just waited around. Chelsea have offered leeds what they want.

money, + CL as well for the player.

Arsenal needed to just pay the money to have a chance. once again dithering in transfer market

the longer it went on more like a chelsea or barca would come in and get the player.

Yeah we should have snapped him up while we were in pole position.

We have to do everything now to sign Gnabry.

 

[James]

Arsenal should have gone in higher for Raphinha and they may well have got him last week. He is an established Brazilian international and Leeds United’s prize asset, it was always going to take the offer of a huge fee (reported via Chelsea to be £65m) for bids to be seriously considered.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal should have gone in higher for Raphinha and they may well have got him last week. He is an established Brazilian international and Leeds United’s prize asset, it was always going to take the offer of a huge fee (reported via Chelsea to be £65m) for bids to be seriously considered.

Typical Arsenal dithering on targets, reminds of years ago in a similar instance where chelsea signed Juan Mata as Arsenal messed around in transfer window.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Raphina is still inconsistent. Better off going for Geldhart

 

[Firebat]

Not overly miffed on missing out on Raphinha. Of course he looks a great player, but there are always others and 65m is a huge fee for someone untested at the elite level (only 6 of 14 G/A last season came against Top 10 opposition).

I'd rather spend that money and wages on a Gnabry.

Let's see what Arsenal do. Maybe they thought he's not worth 65m, maybe they will match Chelsea's bid today, who knows.

If we don't get a good winger by the end of the window, I will be concerned.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Lisandro Martínez looks like will be hijacked by man united, Another Edu disasterclass - Usual stupid slow arsenal negotiations

 

[topspin]

Lisandro Martínez looks like will be hijacked by man united, Another Edu disasterclass - Usual stupid slow arsenal negotiations

Gabriel Jesus had offers from PSG, Chelsea, Spurs and Real Madrid but he chose Arsenal.

This is the Mikel Arteta/Edu effect.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Gabriel Jesus had offers from PSG, Chelsea, Spurs and Real Madrid but he chose Arsenal.

This is the Mikel Arteta/Edu effect.

There was a clear indication he didnt want to leave the PL.

He didnt join spurs as they already have kane / Son and kulasevski. So he wouldnt have been an autopick.

Chelsea - have only just got rid lukaku and not started looking at central strikers.

Jesus joined Arsenal as he would be 1st choice, so a favourable move.

At start of last season we had Auba, laca, balogun and eddie.

we have lost Auba and laca and just brought in jesus. we not exactly better off then "the start of last season"

we need another striker or quality wide player. it was obvious since nov last season Arteta has had no faith in pepe.

Spurs front 4 players will easily help them out score arsenal again next season.

we need to massively improve our 1st X1 if we want to get 4th.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Not overly miffed on missing out on Raphinha. Of course he looks a great player, but there are always others and 65m is a huge fee for someone untested at the elite level (only 6 of 14 G/A last season came against Top 10 opposition).

I'd rather spend that money and wages on a Gnabry.

Let's see what Arsenal do. Maybe they thought he's not worth 65m, maybe they will match Chelsea's bid today, who knows.

If we don't get a good winger by the end of the window, I will be concerned.

If Arsenal were refusing to pay Raphinha fee then there is no way they will go after Gnabry , whilst he would be alot cheaper (1 year left on contract) his wage demands will make a more expensive package.

i agree Raphinha is a expensive, but Arsenal not being in CL then will have to over pay for the player.

Arsenal need to be decisive because if they spend to long wasting time on under bidding for primary targets which they dont get, by time they look at a plan B those players on that list may have gone or they will have to stop penny pinching.

Bruno Guiamaries joined newcastle in jan because Arsenal penny pinched.

The signings we have made so far have not made our overall squad that much stronger then last year.

 

[MenInG]

A leaked image has revealed Gabriel Jesus has been given Arsenal’s No.9 jersey ahead of his imminent transfer to the club.

The Man City forward is closing in on a move to the north London club, who are understood to be paying £45million for his services, with the Gunners seemingly on the cusp of an announcement.

Various pictures leaked online suggest Jesus will definitely become an Arsenal player, with the 25-year-old seen wearing his new No.9 shirt inside the Emirates Stadium.

Alexandre Lacazette was the last player to wear the jersey, which has also been worn by Paul Merson, Alan Smith and Niall Quinn.

Earlier, Jesus was pictured hugging the Gunners’ technical director Edu after completing his medical with the club.

Jesus will be a coup for Arsenal as he brings bags of experience winning at the top level, having won ten trophies at City, including four Premier League titles.

He should also bring goals to the team, having struck 95 times as a Man City player.

However, former Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell believes his old club need to make a couple more signings for the likes of Jesus to thrive next season.

https://talksport.com/football/1140...jesus-arsenal-shirt-number-transfer-man-city/

 

[Amjid Javed]

Lisandro Martínez can play LB, LCB and DM

That means he can provide cover for Garbriel, tierney and partey. Arsenal dont get the signing done then plan B would probably end up having to sign 2 or 3 players to fill them gaps. Edu needs to learn how to get deals done quickly.

I wouldnt be shocked is spurs sign Tielemens while Arsenal are on a go slow.

Richalison, spence, bissouma, persic, bentacur and kulasevski all improve their 1st team, thats what happens when a world class manager and good director of football are in place. Also spurs normally dont splash cash either.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Raphinha and martinez deals now messed up because Arsenal dithered with low offers and just let other teams step in and do the deals, Edu is a 1st class clown.

 

[Rana]

Raphinha and martinez deals now messed up because Arsenal dithered with low offers and just let other teams step in and do the deals, Edu is a 1st class clown.

It’s probably not Edu, rather the financiers of the club who do not want to play their full hand on Edu or any other chief negotiator for transfers. From what I understand,

1.Player A has a market value of £50m

2. Edu approaches share holders board confirming player A is a prime target to them and they need him at all costs

3. Share holders have £50-60m in the reserve for player A if necessary, but will try their best or not have to dish out the full cost. Hence, they tell Edu that they can only fork out £45m for player A at max, and Edu should begin the bid at £38m, rising to £45 and meet halfway if possible.

Working for a club that operates the way Arsenal does can be extremely frustrating a director of football.

On the other hand, clubs like Chelsea and City will simply fork out the asking value, and Man U will offer £5-10m more in order to secure player A’s services. Clubs would much rather do business with them instead of Arsenal

 

[topspin]

Raphinha and martinez deals now messed up because Arsenal dithered with low offers and just let other teams step in and do the deals, Edu is a 1st class clown.

It’s probably not Edu, rather the financiers of the club who do not want to play their full hand on Edu or any other chief negotiator for transfers. From what I understand,

1.Player A has a market value of £50m

2. Edu approaches share holders board confirming player A is a prime target to them and they need him at all costs

3. Share holders have £50-60m in the reserve for player A if necessary, but will try their best or not have to dish out the full cost. Hence, they tell Edu that they can only fork out £45m for player A at max, and Edu should begin the bid at £38m, rising to £45 and meet halfway if possible.

Working for a club that operates the way Arsenal does can be extremely frustrating a director of football.

On the other hand, clubs like Chelsea and City will simply fork out the asking value, and Man U will offer £5-10m more in order to secure player A’s services. Clubs would much rather do business with them instead of Arsenal

As long as we have Nketiah, we should have faith.

 

[Amjid Javed]

An agreement has been reached between Brentford and Bologna for Aaron Hickey at a value of £14.5 rising to £17.25 with additions

Another linked player gone

 

[topspin]

An agreement has been reached between Brentford and Bologna for Aaron Hickey at a value of £14.5 rising to £17.25 with additions

Another linked player gone

Overall it's been a below-par window for us. Yes we have brought in Jesus but Spurs are much stronger now. Getting top 4 next year will be harder.

As a a bare minimum, I want to see a versatile full back (who can play LB and RB) or 2 full backs, Tielemans and a back-up striker for Jesus.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Overall it's been a below-par window for us. Yes we have brought in Jesus but Spurs are much stronger now. Getting top 4 next year will be harder.

As a a bare minimum, I want to see a versatile full back (who can play LB and RB) or 2 full backs, Tielemans and a back-up striker for Jesus.

100% agree a below par window and on what players we need in. we heard Edu and Artetas excuses players werent available in january. No excuses now this summer, if Arsenal dont get required players in or start season poorly then both Edu and Arteta need to be sacked.

 

[Amjid Javed]

It’s probably not Edu, rather the financiers of the club who do not want to play their full hand on Edu or any other chief negotiator for transfers. From what I understand,

1.Player A has a market value of £50m

2. Edu approaches share holders board confirming player A is a prime target to them and they need him at all costs

3. Share holders have £50-60m in the reserve for player A if necessary, but will try their best or not have to dish out the full cost. Hence, they tell Edu that they can only fork out £45m for player A at max, and Edu should begin the bid at £38m, rising to £45 and meet halfway if possible.

Working for a club that operates the way Arsenal does can be extremely frustrating a director of football.

On the other hand, clubs like Chelsea and City will simply fork out the asking value, and Man U will offer £5-10m more in order to secure player A’s services. Clubs would much rather do business with them instead of Arsenal

Operating in such a way is why Arsenal have struggled to get their primary targets down the years, simply penny pinching and trying to gain success, This Transfer window will be another poor one.

 

[finalfantasy7]

An agreement has been reached between Brentford and Bologna for Aaron Hickey at a value of £14.5 rising to £17.25 with additions

Another linked player gone

Fabrizio romano on his twitter said you lot scouted him a few times but never made an official bid, tbh i would says its a bit too risky - lets see how well he does in the prem league - could make or break him.

im more suprised you lot were never linked with tyrell malacia - looks very promising, super energetic, very comfortable on the ball, great stamina, handles tackles / defends decently for his age

 

[MenInG]

New signing Gabriel Jesus has revealed that the opportunity to work under Mikel Arteta once again was a huge factor in his decision to join the club from Manchester City.

In his first interview after putting pen to paper to seal his move to north London, the Brazilian striker was full of praise for his new manager, whom he spent three years with at the Etihad Stadium during Arteta’s time as assistant to Pep Guardiola.

Click here to purchase your Gabriel Jesus shirt on Arsenal Direct!

Giving an insight into the pair’s recent discussions, Jesus said: “We spoke a couple of times about the club, the players, the project and the future. I believe 100 per cent in Mikel. I had a very good time with him before, he’s a very good guy and a very good coach as well.

“He helped me a lot [at Manchester City]. We would always stick together after the training sessions and do some finishing or something. He’s a very intelligent guy and was an amazing player, so if he knows something he can teach me or the young players.”

Another factor in the 25-year-old’s decision-making process was the size of the club he was joining, with Jesus revealing he used to enjoy watching Arsenal teams when he was growing up in Sao Paulo, especially one player in particular.

“I followed Arsenal when I was young because of [Thierry] Henry,” Jesus added. “Obviously I didn’t follow too many European teams but when I saw some of the players that played here, I was like “wow, this club is big.” When I played against Arsenal I was looking at the Emirates and it was a very good stadium, so I’m very excited to play here.

“I’m so happy to sign for this big club. Since day one when I knew I could come to play for Arsenal, I was happy. I know the staff, I know some players, the Brazilian ones. I know there are a lot of top players. They are young and I’m still young as well, so I am so happy to be here to help. I come to help, to learn as well and to try to do my best.”

Despite being the latest addition to a youthful Gunners squad, Jesus arrives with an impressive pedigree. Four Premier League titles, four domestic cups, a Copa America and an Olympic gold medal are just some of the silverware he has already collected, and he wants to bring that winning attitude into the dressing room ahead of an exciting 2022/23 campaign for his new club.

Giving an insight into his character, the striker said: “Since my first day at a professional team with Palmeiras I had that mentality which comes from inside of me, my heart. I started to play to win with Palmeiras, then the Brazilian Olympic team and national team, and then City.

“We have to go at it with everyone together, there’s no other way to win things. When you have a good relationship outside of the pitch, inside works automatically, and that’s my mentality.”

https://www.arsenal.com/news/gabriel-jesus-excited-arteta-reunion

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal have signed Brazil forward Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City for £45m on a long-term deal.

The 25-year-old is manager Mikel Arteta's fourth signing of the summer, following the arrivals of midfielder Fabio Vieira, goalkeeper Matt Turner and Brazilian striker Marquinhos.

Arteta said he was "very excited" by Jesus' arrival.

"The club has done a tremendous job to recruit a player of this stature," he said.

Arteta, who worked with Jesus when an assistant coach at City, has been trying to boost Arsenal's attacking options following the departures of forwards Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on free transfers.

"I know Gabriel personally very well, and we all know him well from his time in the Premier League and being really successful here," the Gunners manager said.

"This is a position that's been on our radar for a long time now and we have managed to get a player that we all wanted, so I'm really happy."

Jesus, who will wear the number nine shirt for the Gunners, leaves City after five-and-a-half years.

He made 236 appearances and scored 95 goals for them, winning four Premier League titles, three League Cups and the FA Cup.

"It's been a pleasure to play for Manchester City," Jesus said.

"I feel like I am a better player now than when I arrived - and to win 11 trophies has been amazing. My four Premier League titles are particularly special for me.

"I want to thank everyone at City - the manager, my teammates and the fans - for all the support they have given me over the past five-and-a-half years."

The Premier League champions allowed Jesus to leave after signing Norway forward Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund for £51.2m in June, with young Argentine Julian Alvarez also expected to join the first-team squad.

Jesus assisted eight league goals for Manchester City in 2021-22, the joint-most of any player at the club along with Kevin de Bruyne.

Jesus joins a club looking to increase their goalscoring threat after finishing fifth in last season's Premier League and missing out on Champions League qualification.

He said he spoke to Arteta about "the club, the players, the project and the future" before the move.

"I believe 100% in Mikel," the striker said. "I had a very good time with him before, he's a very good guy and a very good coach as well. He helped me a lot. We would always stick together after the training sessions and do some finishing or something.

"He's a very intelligent guy and was an amazing player, so if he knows something, he can teach me or the young players."

Arteta relied on his younger players for goals last season, with 20-year-old Bukayo Saka their leading scorer with 12, and fellow England international Emile Smith Rowe, 21, adding 11.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Still on left back, CM, AM or winger signing. Really underwhelming and mediocre transfer window so far.

 

[topspin]

Still on left back, CM, AM or winger signing. Really underwhelming and mediocre transfer window so far.

and a RB or versatile full back. I don't rate Cedric. We need to get rid off him.

Tielemans would be ideal the CM.

I imagine Fabio Vieira will be Odegaard's back up/competitor for the AM spot.

We need to somehow get rid off Pepe and replace him as well.

Arsenal should throw the kitchen sink in order to sign Gnabry. He can play AM or right wing.

If we can get a LB/versatile full back, we should then get rid off Nuno Tavares (or at least send him on loan).

The only other deadwood I see in the team is Rob Holding. I can't forgive him for the way he lost his head against Spurs in such an important game. I thought he was a decent back-up for our 2 x CBs but I feel it's time to move on from him.

I expect us to also move on from the players who were on loan - Bellerin, AMN, Torreira and etc.

Do you think Partey will be with us?

 

[MenInG]

Former Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere has announced his retirement from football at the age of 30 with the Gunners set to make him their under-18s head coach.

Wilshere became the Gunners’ youngest league debutant when aged 16 and 256 days during 2008 after coming through the club’s Academy.

The midfielder, who was hampered by a series of injuries, won the FA Cup twice in successive seasons with Arsenal in 2014 and 2015, before joining Bournemouth and then West Ham.

Arsenal: From Invincibles to a club without a chance of winning the Premier League again

Wilshere returned to the Cherries on a short-term deal in January 2021 and also had a spell at Danish Superliga club AGF.

After making his first senior England appearance in 2010, Wilshere won 34 caps and was part of the 2014 World Cup squad.

“It has been an unbelievable journey filled with so many incredible moments and I feel privileged to have experienced all that I did during my career,” Wilshere said in his retirement announcement on Twitter.

“From being the little boy kicking a ball around in the garden to captaining my beloved Arsenal and playing for my country at a World Cup. I have lived my dream.

“In truth it has been difficult to accept that my career has been slipping away in recent times due to reasons outside of my control whilst feeling that I have still had so much to give.

“Having played at the very highest level I have always held such huge ambitions within the game and if I am truthful, I did not envisage being in this position at times.

“However, having had time to reflect and talk with those closest with me I know that now is the right time and despite the difficult moments, I look back on my career with great pride at what I have achieved.”

And The Athletic journalist David Ornstein claims that Arsenal are set to hand him the role of head coach of their under-18s side.

https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/arsenal-name-wilshere-coach-announces-132500487.html

 

[Firebat]

Gabriel Jesus scored 90 seconds into his first Arsenal outing as his double helped the Gunners to a 5-3 comeback victory over German second division side FC Nurnberg.

 

[Amjid Javed]

and a RB or versatile full back. I don't rate Cedric. We need to get rid off him.

Tielemans would be ideal the CM.

I imagine Fabio Vieira will be Odegaard's back up/competitor for the AM spot.

We need to somehow get rid off Pepe and replace him as well.

Arsenal should throw the kitchen sink in order to sign Gnabry. He can play AM or right wing.

If we can get a LB/versatile full back, we should then get rid off Nuno Tavares (or at least send him on loan).

The only other deadwood I see in the team is Rob Holding. I can't forgive him for the way he lost his head against Spurs in such an important game. I thought he was a decent back-up for our 2 x CBs but I feel it's time to move on from him.

I expect us to also move on from the players who were on loan - Bellerin, AMN, Torreira and etc.

Do you think Partey will be with us?

I agree cedric isnt good enough but i can see him being kept for another year. i think youngster norton cuffy should be picked for or europa games and league cup/FA cup games as i see he will be longterm right back.

Tavares needs to be sold and we need a proper LB who is as good as or better then Tierney as he wont stay fit all season.

our midfield is very poor elneny, xhaka and lakonga are mediocre. Partey cant stay fit and may not even be available at all. We need a DM and AM this transfer window.

problem with pepe no one wants to pay his 140K week wages, yeah we need to get rid and upgrade on wing.

Zinchenko, Paqueta, Tielemens, Gapko or Gnabry would be signings we need but wont happen. Also Arteta wanting to spend big on another left side CB is just stupid, wasting money on positions which arent a priority.

 

[Saj]

Jack Wilshere has been appointed as Arsenal U18 head coach, following his retirement from professional football last week.

Wilshere graduated from the Arsenal academy and went on to make 197 appearances for the club between 2008 and 2018, winning the FA Cup twice. He announced his playing career had come to an end on Friday at the age of 30, just a day after ending his five-month stint at Danish club AGF.

Wilshere, who also played for Bournemouth and West Ham during an injury-hit career, spent time last year working with the Arsenal youngsters but this will be his first official coaching position.

"It's a huge honour to have this role," the former England international said. "It's no secret that I love this club. I love what we stand for and you know a big part of my life was spent in this academy, some of the best days of my life.

"This is a big opportunity for me and I'm ready. I'm hungry and can't wait to help these young players thrive and be the best they can be on and off the pitch.

"It's a special feeling to be part of the Arsenal family. It never left me, even though I moved on for a few years, my heart was always still at Arsenal. I can't wait to get started and help these young players thrive with a great team around me."

SKY

 

[MenInG]

Manchester United to meet with Ajax to push through deal for defender Lisandro Martinez with Erik ten Hag set to beat Arsenal in transfer race

 

[Amjid Javed]

Manchester United to meet with Ajax to push through deal for defender Lisandro Martinez with Erik ten Hag set to beat Arsenal in transfer race

Ajax want to much money and arsenal need to spend most of money improving midfield and a wide forward. plenty of other options for left back.

 

[James]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira has an agreement to join Valencia - but Mikel Arteta wants to keep him in north London for now, says his agent </p>— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsPL/status/1547232883311525888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[James]

Arsenal are interested in Manchester City's Oleksandr Zinchenko and are expected to formally bid for the player.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal are interested in Manchester City's Oleksandr Zinchenko and are expected to formally bid for the player.

would be a good player to get in, can play left back and in midfield. Arsenal need another midfielder and wide player on top of it.

 

[Firebat]

Been a couple of quiet and unremarkable weeks after a lot of excitement and activity earlier. Raphinha off to Barca, Martinez off to United.

Can only hope they have been lining things up behind the scenes.

 

[IMMY69]

Been a couple of quiet and unremarkable weeks after a lot of excitement and activity earlier. Raphinha off to Barca, Martinez off to United.

Can only hope they have been lining things up behind the scenes.

Usual transfer rumours we get year in year out..all talk and no action.
My moto, expect nothing, keep expectations low and see what we have at then end of the window.

 

[MenInG]

Oleksandr Zinchenko: Why Manchester City player fits Arsenal's style of play under Mikel Arteta


It was an afternoon that nearly saw Manchester City's season fall apart, but an unlikely hero stepped up.

City were 1-0 down to Aston Villa at half-time on the final day of last season. Liverpool would go on to beat Wolves at Anfield so Pep Guardiola needed some inspiration or the title would fall into Jurgen Klopp's hands.

During the break, Guardiola turned to his bench. Raheem Sterling was there, so too Ilkay Gundogan and Jack Grealish. But it was Oleksandr Zinchenko who was picked, coming on for makeshift centre-back Fernandinho in a reshuffle of City's defence.

The build-up and shape of the team needed to change and Zinchenko was the man to help. The Ukrainian international went to left-back and dictated the play, making 13 carries in the second half and setting up Rodri for City's equaliser to make it 2-2. City, who suddenly looked more fluid, went on to win the game - and the title.

Sterling and Gundogan would join Zinchenko off the bench and make more noticeable impacts in the final third, reducing the latter to unsung hero status. As that looks like it could be his last match in a City shirt, it may just be a fitting end for Zinchenko, who rarely stood in the Etihad Stadium limelight.

Arsenal are set to bid for the Ukraine international - and given how smoothly the pursuit of Gabriel Jesus went - Zinchenko could well be granted his move to north London. Versatile, technically gifted and reliable are words associated with the 25-year-old at Manchester City, and here's why...

Mikel Arteta has been looking at additions at left-back and central midfield in this summer transfer window. The Gunners wanted Ajax's Lisandro Martinez, who has experience in playing in both positions as well as centre half, but he now looks destined for Manchester United. Leicester City's Youri Tielemans has also been looked at but that interest has cooled in recent weeks.

There is reason why the Arsenal manager needs support in that role. At left-back, Kieran Tierney has picked up long-term injuries in the last two seasons at crucial moments and while Nuno Tavares was signed as cover last summer, the young Portuguese full-back struggled in the big moments and ended up behind Cedric Soares and Granit Xhaka in the left-back pecking order come the end of the season.

In midfield, Xhaka is a mainstay in Arteta's team but there is little competition for his specific role. Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny and Albert Sambi Lokonga all compete for the same position at the base of Arsenal's midfield, leaving Xhaka to a number 8 role. A midfield of Xhaka, Martin Odegaard and new £35m man Fabio Vieira would represent somewhat of a risk, given two have experience of being number 10s.

Should he play in midfield, a role he undertakes regularly at international level, Zinchenko would compete with Xhaka at Arsenal - and a closer look at their respective heatmaps last season shows that the two play in the same area of the pitch, even though the Ukrainian played at left-back and the Arsenal man operated from midfield.

On the ball, Zinchenko's passing statistics are superior to Xhaka's - but that is to be expected given Guardiola's City keep the ball and use it better than Arsenal. But even then, the Ukrainian earned the respect of his team-mates at the Premier League champions for being one of the most technically gifted players in the squad.

Asked in a recent YouTube interview about the City squad, fellow full-back Kyle Walker put Zinchenko in his top three most talented team-mates players with the ball - ahead of Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Joao Cancelo.

"My top three are Zinchenko, Riyad Mahrez and Bernardo Silva," said Walker. "Two touches, head tennis - so good.

"You're leaving De Bruyne out, Foden [and] Cancelo [too], but they don't come close to those three."

On top of that, Zinchenko and City defended a lot less than Arsenal last summer, but the Ukrainian international's defensive stats still trump Xhaka's. Zinchenko won more tackles, interceptions and challenges in the air than the Swiss midfielder - a reminder that the two players operate in roughly the same area of the pitch.

Xhaka wins more challenges in the middle of the pitch than Zinchenko - but that is the Arsenal man's speciality. The Switzerland captain ranks in the top 10 players for winning the ball.

If Zinchenko is needed at left-back, then there would be no problem with him fitting into Arsenal's set-up.

Tierney pushes on to a very advanced role, allowing the left winger in Emile Smith Rowe or Gabriel Martinelli to tuck in to support the centre forward. While that differs slightly to Zinchenko's full-back role at City - which is more of an additional midfielder - there is evidence that the Ukrainian can transition quickly.

In a clip from Manchester City's All or Nothing documentary from the 2017-18 season, Arteta was seen trying to mould Zinchenko into the type of full-back Tierney currently represents.

"Danilo and Oleks have to attack that guy [the opposition full-back] like a winger, for the other side to move outside," said Arteta, who was asked by Guardiola to come up with a plan to get around Arsene Wenger's Arsenal.

And Zinchenko's statistics from last season show why he would quickly adapt at Arteta's Arsenal - no matter which position he'd play in. With the third most touches per 90 out of any Premier League player, plus the most final third passes per 90 and the sixth best pass completion rate, Zinchenko shows he wants the ball and keeps it too.

Zinchenko also fits Arteta's squad in terms of the profile of player he likes. At 25, he is only a year older than Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White, Gabriel Magalhaes and two than Odegaard and Takehiro Tomiyasu - all of whom have been signed in the past two summer windows.

And Zinchenko's profile is very similar to Odegaard's in that he began captaining his country at a very young age. The Ukrainian international became his country's youngest ever skipper at 19 and his four Premier League titles, five more English domestic honours, plus a Champions League final appearance make him an experienced figure, even at 25.

Zinchenko's mentality was praised by City boss Guardiola last season. "Oleks is another player who is so reliable, so he will never forget what he has done these last three or four years playing in a position that is not his natural position," the Spaniard said after he played a starring role in City's 4-3 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.

"When you don't play your natural position, you are [normally] going to play one or two games but playing seasons not in your natural position, you have to be so strong in your head and in your mind.

"He will do it every single day. But above that it is not an easy period for Oleks, what happened to his loved ones [in Ukraine], the citizens. It was a tough, tough period for him personally.

"Oleks is so reliable because he is always focused and is always concentrating. It is incredibly appreciated in the dressing room. Defence is about attitude, it is not about talent. Oleks is always there, he is not the fastest one but his focus is there."

Reliable is a word that has not been commonplace when describing Arsenal players, especially those with whom Zinchenko will compete alongside for a starting spot. Perhaps that unlikely hero at City is set for his time in the limelight elsewhere.

SKY

 

[MenInG]

Xhaka: Signings have winning mentality

Granit Xhaka has spoken of his delight at having seen Arsenal sign Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira - both of whom have won league titles prior to arriving at the Emirates Stadium.

"They are bringing something more than just games and wins," Xhaka told Sky Sports.

"They're bringing a mentality of winning something and this is what we need here. It's easy to speak, but you have to show it on the pitch.

"Our signings this summer brings this experience. Gabby [Gabriel Jesus] knows the Premier League and he's already won almost everything, but the most important thing is to bring players in who have a hunger as well.

"You can win a lot of trophies and think that's enough but these guys want to win much more with Arsenal. This is what makes us very happy to have them."

 

[Amjid Javed]

Usual transfer rumours we get year in year out..all talk and no action.
My moto, expect nothing, keep expectations low and see what we have at then end of the window.

Most of links are put out so Arsenal can make out they are pretending to sign players. 3 weeks till season starts and squad is weaker then start of last season.

mediocre Transfer window so far.

 

[IMMY69]

Most of links are put out so Arsenal can make out they are pretending to sign players. 3 weeks till season starts and squad is weaker then start of last season.

mediocre Transfer window so far.

Whilst we must appreciate that the Owners are business savvy and won't risk overspending, we also have to accept that it is just a business for them and as long as they have their property investment in prime London and generate a healthy profit, winning trophies is just secondary.

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal are prepared to sell Nicolas Pepe for less than the £72m club-record fee they paid for him, with the 27-year-old Ivory Coast winger no longer part of manager Mikel Arteta's plans.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal are prepared to sell Nicolas Pepe for less than the £72m club-record fee they paid for him, with the 27-year-old Ivory Coast winger no longer part of manager Mikel Arteta's plans.

Be lucky to get 25M for him now, sadly needs to be sold and we need an upgrade on right wing.

 

[finalfantasy7]

Arsenal are prepared to sell Nicolas Pepe for less than the £72m club-record fee they paid for him, with the 27-year-old Ivory Coast winger no longer part of manager Mikel Arteta's plans.

dont think he would even sell for £35m, a big loss

 

[Firebat]

Bayern Munich sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has again reiterated the German club's stance on Cristiano Ronaldo, 37, by ruling out a move for the Manchester United and Portugal forward. (SPORT1 via Mail on Sunday)

 

[James]

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said new signing Gabriel Jesus "creates chaos" after the Brazil forward scored in a 2-0 friendly win over Everton.

The £45m signing continued his impressive pre-season form by firing home from a 33rd-minute corner at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

Jesus, who scored twice against Nuremberg this month, helped set up Bukayo Saka for Arsenal's second.

"He creates uncertainty and he's always on your shoulder," said Arteta.

"He's a real threat and this is what we need. He's very versatile, but obviously the way we would like to develop him is in that [number nine] position."

Arsenal face Orlando City and Chelsea in Orlando next week.

 

[MenInG]

Young players taking on leadership roles "brings the best" out of Arsenal's squad, Martin Odegaard says.

The Norway midfielder, 23, captained the Gunners as they beat Everton 2-0 in a friendly in Baltimore at the weekend.

Manager Mikel Arteta is looking to appoint a new captain following the exit of Alexandre Lacazette to Lyon.

Asked about his leadership qualities, Odegaard told BBC Sport: "I think I've maybe improved that quality a little bit with the time and experience."

He added: "I've been through a lot of things, ups and downs, and I think all that makes you stronger."

Odegaard, who already captains his country, is one of a number of young talents at the club, including Bukayo Saka, 20, Emile Smith Rowe, 21, and Gabriel Martinelli, 21.

Arteta has also added midfielder Fabio Vieira, 22, and striker Gabriel Jesus, 25, this summer.

Odegaard believes the current squad has "already experienced a lot" and describes his younger team-mates as "big, big talents".

He gained significant experience from a young age, becoming Norway's youngest-ever senior international when he made his debut, aged 15 years 253 days, in a friendly against the United Arab Emirates in August 2014, four months after his senior club debut with Stromsgodset in his homeland.

He joined Real Madrid in 2015 and also spent time on loan at Heerenveen, Vitesse and Real Sociedad before joining Arsenal in 2021.

Odegaard says he has played "a lot of games on a high level" and can "share that experience" with his team-mates.

He said: "I feel more confident and more calm on the pitch so I just try to use that in a good way and do what's best for the team.

"I think here everyone expects you to take that leadership even if you're young.

"That brings the best out of the young guys coming through, so definitely I think everyone here feels like they need to be on their best and they need to take part of and take ownership of everything we do."

Arsenal, who missed out on a Champions League spot after finishing fifth in last season's Premier League, are currently on a pre-season tour in the United States, with games against Orlando City and Chelsea this week.

Odegaard added: "I know we have a big fanbase here and a big support so it's nice to come here and to play in front of them and then and hopefully make them happy with the games and give them some good moments.

"When you travel like this, you see how big the club is and then you see the support we have all over the world."

BBC

 

[topspin]

I assume Zinchenko has been signed to primarily give competition to Xhaka for the number 8 role but also cover for Tierney. He can also play the number 10 role if Odegaard and Vieria are not up to it/need to be rotated/injured.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Oleksandr Zinchenko to Arsenal, here we go! Full agreement in place since Friday with Man City for £30m guaranteed fee, personal terms also agreed. Zinchenko, always been keen on re-joining Arteta. ️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFC</a><br><br>Contract until June 2026, as per <a href="https://twitter.com/David_Ornstein?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@David_Ornstein</a> - medical this week. <a href="https://t.co/sVpYpZN2iH">pic.twitter.com/sVpYpZN2iH</a></p>— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1549103823758757890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal are in the process of finalising a move for Oleksandr Zinchenko after reaching an agreement in principle with the 25-year-old on a four-year contract, The Athletic understands.

Having already had an offer, believed to be £30 million + £2 million in achievable add-ons, accepted by their Premier League counterparts, Arsenal now also have personal terms in place with the Ukraine international.

If all goes to plan, Zinchenko will leave City’s pre-season tour to undergo a medical and sign for the North London club.

Although he tends to operate in midfield for his country, Zinchenko has mainly been used by Guardiola at left-back. While that is a specific area of the pitch where Arsenal have been looking to strengthen, his versatility is certain to appeal.

Zinchenko has enjoyed huge success at City, winning the English top-flight four times and likewise the League Cup. He has lifted one FA Cup and played in the 2021 Champions League final.

Zinchenko would become Arsenal's fifth signing of the summer after the arrivals of Marquinhos, Matt Turner, Fabio Vieira and Gabriel Jesus.

https://theathletic.com/news/arsenal-oleksandr-zinchenko-manchester-city-transfer/xFNVd6aVh31m/

 

[MenInG]

BREAKING: Arsenal have agreed a £32m deal with Manchester City to sign Oleksandr Zinchenko.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Another Top quality midfielder and wide attacker needed.

The 1st team still needs upgrades and team needs squad depth to.

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal have completed the signing of versatile Ukraine player Oleksandr Zinchenko from Manchester City.

The 25-year-old flew back from City's pre-season tour of the USA to complete the move after Arsenal agreed a £30m deal, which includes £2m in add-ons.

He has signed a long-term contract with the London club and is their fifth signing of the summer.

"This is a boyhood dream come true, because I was a massive fan when I was a kid," said Zinchenko.

"Since Thierry Henry and young Cesc Fabregas was playing here, I was just enjoying watching those games, that Arsenal. And obviously I started to love this club, so I am so excited and I cannot wait to play for this amazing club."

'A hope and smell for titles'
Predominantly a midfielder for his country, Zinchenko largely featured at left-back for the Blues, but only played 15 times last season as Pep Guardiola's side retained the Premier League title.

He says he has spoken to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta about his role in the team but would keep the details "private", adding: "If the manager tells me one day I need to be goalkeeper, I will be there."

Zinchenko worked with Arteta when the Gunners' boss was on the coaching team at Manchester City and says the experience played "the most important role" in his decision to move.

"Since the first day at City I knew that he's going to be a very good manager," Zinchenko added.

"I am here to achieve big things and I hope we can win some titles, and I hope we are going to fight for every title in which we are going to be involved.

"Even from the last season, I was watching Arsenal's games and I could smell it's coming, you know? The team is growing up so quickly and I think it's time. It's time to do our best and to achieve something big."

Zinchenko is the second player to move from City to the Emirates this summer.

Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus joined the Gunners for £45m earlier this month.

Technical director Edu said Zinchenko had been a "main focus" in their recruitment and backed the new recruit to help the squad reach a "different level".

Manager Arteta added: "Alex is a high quality player who will give us options and versatility.

"He's a player that I personally know really well and continued to follow him after my time at Manchester City.

"It's not only about the positions he can play but as well, the versatility he will give us in attack and defence.

"Alex is a person with great human qualities and character, and I'm delighted that everyone has made this huge effort to bring Alex to the club."

BBC

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&#55357;&#56803;️ "There are still a few things we would like to do."<br><br>Mikel Arteta says there is still business to be done at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFC</a> &#55357;&#56628;<a href="https://t.co/QzpyVqc8IJ">pic.twitter.com/QzpyVqc8IJ</a></p>— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1550575579413585925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

'Arsenal offer Saka a new long-term deal that would at least double his wages'

Arsenal have offered Bukayo Saka a new long-term contract that would see him become one of the club’s best paid players, according to the Daily Mail.

The 20-year-old's current deal expires in the summer of 2024 and is reportedly a target for Manchester City.

But the Daily Mail claim the Gunners have now formally offered the England international an extension worth at least double his current wages.

The report says there is currently no agreement, and it remains to be seen how Saka formally responds to the offer.

 

[MenInG]

 

[Firebat]

Nuno Tavares will undergo a medical with Marseille on Friday after the French side agreed a loan deal for Arsenal's Portuguese left-back, 22. (Fabrizio Romano)

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&#55357;&#56628; All or Nothing: &#55349;&#56788;&#55349;&#56831;&#55349;&#56832;&#55349;&#56818;&#55349;&#56827;&#55349;&#56814;&#55349;&#56825;<br><br>After losing our first three Premier League games of 21/22, the boss delivered this... <br><br>&#55357;&#56570; Prime Video: August 4 | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AONArsenal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AONArsenal</a> <a href="https://t.co/sYazjT5rT6">pic.twitter.com/sYazjT5rT6</a></p>— Arsenal (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/1552308811549081602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

We are delighted to announce that Martin Odegaard has been named our new men’s first-team captain.

The 23-year-old has made a huge impact since arriving at Emirates Stadium from Real Madrid in January 2021, initially on loan, and has gone on to play 60 times, scoring nine goals.

Odegaard has experience of wearing the armband, having been Norway captain since March 2021, whom he has won 43 caps for.

We wish Martin every success as our captain.

We will have more on the appointment here after today's match.

https://www.arsenal.com/news/martin-odegaard-named-captain

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal have agreed to loan left-back Nuno Tavares to French club Marseille for the upcoming season.

The 22-year-old joined the Premier League side in the 2021 summer transfer window and he has made 28 appearances and scored once for the Gunners.

Tavares' first competitive goal was against Manchester United in April.

The Portugal Under-21 defender had been expected to join Atlanta but the deal fell through. He is the 11th player loaned out by Arsenal this summer.

Tyreece John-Jules joining Ipswich Town and Ryan Alebiosu heading to Kilmarnock are two of the other temporary moves.

 

[MenInG]

GABRIEL JESUS grabbed a hat-trick as goal-hungry Arsenal added the Emirates Cup to their pre-season collection.

A week after beating Chelsea 4-0 in Orlando to win the Florida Cup, Mikel Arteta’s men were at it again as they put another Champions League opponent to the sword.

Having won all four of their previous warm-up games in Nuremberg and the USA, Gunners fans were eager to see if their team could maintain that momentum against the side which finished fourth in LaLiga last season.

And they didn’t have to wait long for an answer as Arsenal ran riot with an astonishing four-goal burst in the opening 19 minutes.

Bukayo Saka started the Emirates massacre when he converted a ninth-minute penalty after being barged over in the box by Karim Rekik.

Jesus doubled their lead five minutes later when Sevilla keeper Bono pushed Granit Xhaka’s low cross straight into the path of the lurking Brazilian.

And Arsenal’s new £45million signing from Manchester City struck again within seconds when he ghosted in behind Seville’s dozing defence to convert Gabriel Martinelli’s ball over the top.

Even worse was to follow for the visitors when Bono passed straight to Saka as he tried to play out from the back and Arsenal’s newly-crowned Player of the Year was never going to look that gift horse in the mouth.

It was to be another hour before Arsenal extended their lead when Jesus completed his hat-trick with another opportunist strike at the back post.

It means he has now scored seven times already for his new club… and he hasn’t even got started yet.

Eddie Nketiah completed the rout in the 88th minute after replacing Jesus while William Saliba and Oleksandr Zinchenko were applauded for every touch in their first Emirates appearances in an Arsenal shirt.

And with new captain Martin Odegaard pulling all the strings in midfield, Arteta must feel his team are in pretty good shape going into next Friday’s Premier League opener at Crystal Palace.

Thomas Partey should have scored with a close-range header and Bono finally found what he was looking for when he saved from Martinelli.

And even though Kieran Tierney, Emile Smith Rowe, Takehiro Tomiyasu and new £30million midfielder Fabio Vieira are still struggling with injury, nothing is going to burst Arsenal’s bubble right now.

https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/1937...twitter&utm_source=Twitter#Echobox=1659187952

 

[IMMY69]

We've had a superb pre-season and have brought in a a few very good players...
All this gives me hope for this season...
But we've been here before so I'll try and not get too excited until I've seen where we are in October.
October is the Litmus test for us.

 

[MenInG]

We've had a superb pre-season and have brought in a a few very good players...
All this gives me hope for this season...
But we've been here before so I'll try and not get too excited until I've seen where we are in October.
October is the Litmus test for us.

What is it that MJ says in Spider-Man: No Way Home?

If you expect disappointment, then you can never really get disappointed.

 

[Firebat]

Arteta: Jesus is phenomenal but Odegaard makes him better

While Jesus will be hailed for his three goals and general pre-season form, Arteta chose to highlight Jesus' off-the-ball work and his ability to force Sevilla into mistakes.

"Everybody knows Gabby and everyone sees he wants to play with that intensity to win the ball, provoke mistakes and play in the opposition half as much as possible," Arteta said in his post-match press conference.

"You cannot do that if players at the front are not working or not tracking or they don't have that instinct or intensity to provoke things that we want. Gabby is phenomenal at that.

"You are hoping that [scoring goals so quickly] is going to happen. A player has to adapt to a new city, club, team-mates, and he's done it in a really fast and natural way.

"You can see the way they [his team-mates] look for him on and off the ball and you can see what he can transmit on the pitch. I'm really happy with him."

Arteta also hailed the link between Jesus and new Arsenal captain Odegaard - who was given the armband on a full-time basis before the game.

"He makes Gabby better and he needs a threat in front of him," Arteta said of Odegaard. "He can find the last pass in any moment either in close or open spaces. We need someone to make him look better and the connection is already there."

 

[Firebat]

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says he wants more additions to his squad this summer, with the Gunners understood to still retain an interest in Leicester City and Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans, 25. (90 Min)

 

[Amjid Javed]

preseason has been good but facts are that as soon as you replace any of the starting 11 the quality drops to much and our bench is very poor. we still need a new winger and midfielder and need to get rid of the deadwood.

Palace away on fri will be a realty check for team after pre season.

 

[Firebat]

Fulham have signed goalkeeper Bernd Leno from Arsenal on a three-year contract in a deal worth up to £8m.

====================================

Have to say this is terrible business from Edu. The initial fee is just £2m, the rest are add-ons that come if FFC stay up for a couple of the seasons. Gave away a GK of his calibre for peanuts.

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal have been the Premier League’s biggest spenders in recent years, and Mikel Arteta has hinted at further signings by declaring: “It’s not going to stop.”

The Gunners have been prolific in the transfer market already this summer having signed five players for the first-team squad.

They include big-money deals for Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko from Man City, Fabio Vieira from Porto, Matt Turner from New England Revolution and Marquinhos from Sao Paulo.

Arsenal’s spending this summer is not out of the ordinary – Arteta’s side spent big last term with deals for the likes of Ben White, Martin Odegaard and Aaron Ramsdale.

In fact, the Gunners are the Premier League’s highest spending club during the last three transfer windows, having spent £278.3million since the start of summer 2021.

That’s more than Man City, Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and Liverpool who have spent significantly less in that time.

The Gunners missed out on a top-four finish last term and will be desperate to secure Champions League football this time around, with new signings set to play a big role in their quest.

And Arteta has hinted that their business is far from done.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Friday’s Premier League opener against Crystal Palace Arteta said: “We are really active, as you can see with [the] ins and outs.

“Everything is still open; it’s a long window. A lot happens.

“It’s incredible how much business the club has already done. It shows how competitive the season will be. It’s not going to stop.

“Some players will have the need to leave, some others to move. Everything is still open.”

TalkSports