Arsenal's pre-season is underway, with Mikel Arteta looking to drive minutes into the legs of his first-team as they prepare to defend their Premier League title in 2026/27
Ben White applauds
Ben White was full of praise for Christos Tzolis(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
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Ben White claims that Christos Tzolis has 'beat everyone' in terms of pre-season testing, eager to make a mark with his new club.
The 24-year-old arrived at the Emirates Stadium earlier this summer in a £34million move from Club Brugge, as he looks to test himself at the highest level.
Immediately settling into his new surroundings, it's clear that Tzolis has a point to prove as he looks to secure a starting position in Mikel Arteta's first-team.
And his new team-mates have also taken quite the shine to him, with full-back, White, lavishing Tzolis with praise.
As per the Sun, he said: "Christos has been amazing. He came in, did all the testing, and beat everyone.
"So he is fitting in really well and everyone is really happy for him to be here."
In terms of pre-season friendlies, meanwhile, Tzolis has already impressed.
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The winger managed an assists in a 3-0 win over MK Dons last week behind closed doors, before making his full debut with the Gunners on Saturday against Girona.
With Kai Havertz already opening the scoring earlier in the clash, Tzolis received the ball out wide before firing home into the bottom corner.
While Arnau Martinez pulled one back for Girona early into half-time, his goal came as all but a consolation courtesy of finishes from Max Dowman and Gabriel Jesus to afford Arsenal a 4-1 win.
It's not just Tzolis' team-mates who have been impressed with the Greek talent, either.
Speaking after his debut, Arteta said: "I’m very pleased with him.
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“First of all, the way he has adapted to the club, to the team. The connection he’s already generated with the boys. I think you’re going to love the player.
“He’s a very direct player. He’s got the ball between the eyes. I think really good at linking up.
“He has a lot of similarities with Leo in a lot of the things that he can do and the spaces he can occupy. And then the work ethic that he has.
“He’s a boy that comes with so much hunger as well and wants to prove it. It’s a dream for him and we are here to help him.”
Arsenal now turn their attention to another pre-season friendly clash come Wednesday, August 5 - this time, against Real Betis.