Arsenal
Arsenal Football Club Crest and Cannon Emblem on Stadium in London, UK, January 23, 2026.
Arsenal were among the European heavyweights in attendance as FC Porto drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest on Thursday, and the Gunners will have left with several names worth noting.
The Europa League quarter-final first leg brought together two historic clubs, but Porto carried the greater attacking threat for long periods. That gave Arsenal’s scouts a strong look at players operating under pressure and in a game with real intensity.
Portuguese outlets O Jogo and A Bola both report Arsenal were present at the Estádio do Dragão, alongside clubs such as Barcelona, PSG, Chelsea and Newcastle. From an Arsenal perspective, attention naturally falls on those who stood out in Porto’s attacking structure.
Gabri Veiga sets the tempo
Gabri Veiga was arguably the most influential player on the pitch before his substitution. The 23-year-old dictated Porto’s attacking rhythm and repeatedly found space between Nottingham Forest’s lines.
He provided the assist for William Gomes’ goal after a sharp collective move. In addition, Veiga completed 26 of 29 passes and created two clear chances. His work off the ball also stood out, with four recoveries and an interception.
For Arsenal, that mix of technical quality and intensity will not go unnoticed.They were already linked to him in the past, but now Veiga is looking even more comfortable operating in tight spaces and making quick decisions in the final third.
Gomes delivers again – Gül offers different profile
William Gomescontinued his risewith another decisive contribution. He is a direct, productive winger whose end product is always in demand at the top level.
The 20-year-old winger scored Porto’s opener and remained a constant threat, especially when drifting inside from the right.
He finished with three shots, two successful dribbles and six duels won. His recent form adds further weight to his performance. Gomes now has four goals in his last five matches and sits on 13 for the season, second only to Samu in Porto’s squad.
Deniz Gül, meanwhile, came off the bench and offered a more physical presence up front. The 21-year-old striker showed good intent, produced a dangerous effort and competed well before fading late on.
His profile may be particularly relevant to Arsenal’s ongoing search for a younger striker option to support Viktor Gyökeres. Gül is still developing, but his energy and movement were evident.
Other notes from the game
Seko Fofana impressed with his ability to carry the ball through transitions, whilereported Leeds target Zaidu Sanusi provided width from left-back. Both had solid outings, though they are less directly aligned with Arsenal’s current priorities.
From the Nottingham Forest side, Stefan Ortega was key in keeping the score level. His saves ensured Arsenal’s scouts saw a competitive contest despite Porto’s attacking dominance.
Also, Jakub Kiwior was there, but the former Arsenal defender stayed on the bench.
Scouting output
Gabri Veiga and William Gomes were the standout attacking performers, while Deniz Gül offered a glimpse of a different option. All three will likely remain on Arsenal’s radar after this showing.
The Gunners continue to assess multiple profiles across Europe, and this trip to Porto provided useful live insight. It is unlikely to be decisive on its own, but it adds another layer to ongoing recruitment work.