Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed the two things that have made him very excited ahead of the start of the Premier League season
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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his delight with the depth and versatility within his squad after the Gunners cruised to a 3-0 victory over Athletic Club to lift the Emirates Cup on Saturday.
Goals from summer signings Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz, along with a dominant all-round display, sealed the win in front of a buoyant Emirates crowd.
Gyokeres opened his account for the club in the first half, heading home from a pinpoint Martin Zubimendi cross, before Havertz came off the bench to add a second. Arsenal capped off the evening with a third to secure a clean sheet and a statement victory.
“In every position now, we have a different quality,” Arteta said after the match. “We have a lot of players who can operate in various roles, bringing different kinds of threats to the team.
Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz
Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz
“We’ll manage that to maintain cohesion, hunger, and the ability to change the puzzle at any moment to make life difficult for opponents. I’m very pleased with the performance, the fluidity, the dynamism, and the individual contributions.”
The Arsenal boss reserved special praise for the opening goal, highlighting the instant impact of his summer recruits. “The quality of Zubi’s delivery was absolutely top,” he noted. “He was incredible today. For Viktor, getting that first goal is very important psychologically. Kai also came on and scored an incredible goal. I’m very happy with the team.”
Arteta also took a moment to commend Arsenal’s global fanbase for their unwavering support during pre-season. “Everywhere we’ve been has been sold out. The energy and excitement from the fans, especially towards the new players, has been unbelievable,” he said.
With pre-season now concluded, Arteta confirmed the squad will review their performances and make final adjustments ahead of their Premier League opener on Sunday. “We’re very much ready to start the season,” he declared.