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Arsenal vs Villareal live: Emirates hosts first pre-season friendly as Premier League opening weekend looms

Viktor Gyokeres could make his first start for the Gunners as they take on Villareal at home

Norgaard excited after 'big move' to Arsenal

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Arsenal face Villarreal in a friendly at the Emirates this evening, with Mikel Arteta’s side continuing pre-season preparations ahead of their opening Premier League match against Manchester United.

The Gunners have returned from a tour of Asia that produced mixed results including a win over Newcastle and a loss against Spurs, but fans have been encouraged by a series of signings that includes striker Viktor Gyokeres, midfielder Martin Zubimendi and former Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.

So, as Arsenal return to the Emirates for two friendlies ahead of the start of 2025/26, expectations are high after improving a side that has finished second in the league in three consecutive seasons.

And with just two matches left ahead of their Premier League opener, Arteta will be putting the finishing touches to his starting eleven ahead of a potentially difficult opening day at Old Trafford on 17 August.

Follow all the action at the Emirates with our liveblog below:

Arsenal vs Villareal LIVE

Arsenal host Villareal in first pre-season friendly at the Emirates

The Gunners won their first two friendlies but suffered defeat to Spurs last time out

Watch the game live on Arsenal.com

Penultimate game for Mikel Arteta's side before Premier League opener against Man United

1 minute ago

When is Arsenal vs Villareal

The match will take place on Wednesday, 6 August at the Emirates Stadium in London, with kick-off set for 6pm BST.

How can I watch it?

The match will not be shown on TV in the UK, but it will be shown live on Arsenal.com and the official app, and can be streamed for £6.99.

Flo Clifford6 August 2025 15:40

12 minutes ago

Arsenal vs Villareal LIVE

Hello and welcome to live coverage of Arsenal’s penultimate pre-season friendly!

Fresh from their tour of Asia, they welcome Villareal to the Emirates for tonight’s 6pm clash.

(Nick Potts/PA Wire)

Flo Clifford6 August 2025 15:30

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