Everyone had that feeling in the back of their mind, that whirl in their stomach - nerves. Then again, it is the first day of the season AWAY at Old Trafford. As kickoff approaches those nerves start to turn into excitement. The mind starts to race on all the possibilities - seeing Gyokeres do the Bane Celebration mainly - until the first duel is contested. Zubimendi gets a whack in the face from Mbeumo and the ref does a good job of pretending it didn’t happen. That’s when the fear strikes at what could possibly happen here in this raucous stadium.

Key Moments

Arsenal struggled to get a foothold in the game in the first 10 minutes, constantly getting out duelled and being sloppy in possession. There almost seemed to be a fear within their play, the confidence was not there. Even the mighty William Saliba looked to be a shell of himself during the opening exchanges.

As you can see above, United controlled most of the zones throughout the game and Arsenal ceded way too much control in this game. This can be partly due to the game state in the second half - but make no mistake about it the first half was poor.

Now onto a positive note, in the 13th minute - The Italian Stallion - Riccardo Calafiori was aware and there to nod Arsenal into the lead from - yeah you guessed it , another set piece - this time a corner from Declan Rice. I don’t say this lightly but Declan Rice may just be the best corner taker there is. The ball was whipped perfectly and controversially or not, Bayindir was brushed aside by Saliba and Calafiori tapped in. Interestingly, this corner routine was different and new from Arsenal. They do say new season, new beginnings.

As seen here - Arsenal have 4 to 5 runners starting from deep and attacking the space in the box. This not only cause confusion for opposition, but with PL clamping down on contact from set-pieces we could see a fair few penalties for Arsenal as opponents attempt to stop the runners attacking the ball. Actually, from this very corner Arsenal have a penalty case as Cunha wrestles Zubimendi down.

Once the goal happened - there was some hope (from me anyways) - that Arsenal would start to shift into gear and play with some more control. However, what could possibly be a significant change for this season came into effect shortly after.

The Basketball Effect

This is a term I have decided to use for what looks like a new type of game model for Arsenal this season and that is transition play. Arsenal of old is centred around one word - Control - this went out the window for this game. Now I am not sure this was the best game to introduce this game model, however Mikel Arteta decided to do so.

Arsenal when the chance arose decided to play fast and forward quickly. Now this comes with its dangers as if the rest defence is not set the opposition can be in on the counter if the ball is lost. This exact scenario happened multiple times in this game. Arsenal in the end were lucky to get away with it.

The players didn't look ready to play this type of football as of yet. Martin Odegaard misplaces his through ball pass numerous times on the counter. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martnelli both made numerous poor runs on the counter attack. Gyokeres - this situation is where he thrives - was not fed enough or close enough to goal when on the counter attack.

Gyokeres vs Havertz

Now this has been the talk for a while, who is going to start as Arsenal’s number 9. Arteta chose to give the role to Viktor Gyokeres against Manchester United. In my opinion for this game in particular this was not the correct decision. I obviously have the luxury of knowing what’s happened, Mikel Arteta clearly does not pre game. The way Arsenal played was not to play through Man United’s press but over it. However, this type of play does not suit Gyokeres at all. He only won 1/6 of his duels with De Ligt.

On the other hand, the very few times Arsenal played to his strengths - which is putting balls down the channels to leave him 1v1 - he looked much better. During the season he will look much better, right now I would put it down to his lack of sharpness and fitness.

Meanwhile, when Kai Havertz entered the fray, I thought he had a solid 30 minute cameo. When we played long, he held the ball well and brought others into the game. Kai Havertz suits the playing over the top of the press so as such thrives in these game states. Hence my reasoning that he should have played 60 minutes to start and then when the game opens up and there is space to run into, Gyokeres should come on and play the last 30 minutes.

The Press

Arsenal press to begin was as simple as you can put it - Not Good Enough. Manchester United always had a +1 whether that was the RCB of Leny Yoro or the LCB in Luke Shaw. Gyokeres particularly struggled to get up to speed with the pressing schemes.

As you can see here - Saka is left with a choice as Manchester United often do they send the CCB into midfield as part of their buildup. Saka now has to choose to go and press the LCB Shaw or stick with De Ligt who has moved into the base of midfield alongside Casemiro. This situation repeatedly arose for Arsenal during the first half partly due to Gyokeres not pressing correctly or with enough intensity. This allowed United to take control of the game with the ball as they were technically secure and won their 2nd balls well.

Arsenal have been trying this new press since pre-season where instead of pressing in a more conservative man-to-man approach it becomes a higher risk man-to-man press. This didn’t work particularly well as through some technical excellency Bayindir played United out of the press numerous times with ease.

As seen here Bayindir splits Odegaard and Rice with this great pass into Bruno Fernandes and then United are through by taking 5 Arsenal players out in one pass. These are the risks that come with the more aggressive man-to-man press.

Conclusions

As a fan of this great football club I would say it’s a top win at a ground that is certainly one of our biggest bogey grounds. To not only win there but also keep a clean sheet is a great result for Arsenal to start the season. From the more analyst POV this was a poor performance for Arsenal’s standards. I would say the only way is up from this performance and I would expect many improvement against Leeds on Saturday.

1 game unbeaten, 37 to go.

First Half

• Opening Goal – Viktor Gyökeres (34’):
  The summer signing scored his first goal for Arsenal with a powerful header. Martin Zubimendi delivered an inch-perfect whipped cross that the Swede met emphatically, putting the ball past Unai Simón. It was capped off with his trademark celebration, quickly winning over fans.

• Bukayo Saka (36’):
  Just two minutes later, Rolling plays from Arsenal carved open Bilbao’s defence. A loose ball through from Declan Rice found Gabriel Martinelli, who benefited from a hesitant Simón and squared it neatly to Saka for an easy tap-in.

Second Half

• Near-Miss – Gyökeres:
  Gyökeres was denied a second when his header—after diving to meet Noni Madueke’s cross—was tipped onto the post by the keeper.

• Kai Havertz (82’):
  Havertz sealed the emphatic win. He seized a loose ball around halfway, powered into the box, shrugged off a challenge and delivered a composed low finish into the bottom corner.

Tactical Takeaways

Arsenal’s 3–0 win over Athletic Bilbao was less about the scoreline and more about how Mikel Arteta’s tactical blueprint looked fully polished before the competitive season.

1. Structured Pressing and Rest Defence

   • From the first whistle, Arsenal’s press was coordinated, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli leading the trigger press, supported by Martin Ødegaard stepping high to cut off Bilbao’s passing lanes.

   • Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi anchored the midfield, ensuring that when possession was lost, the “rest defence” structure was in place — often leaving William Saliba and Gabriel in 2v1 or 2v2 scenarios they looked comfortable managing.

2. Midfield Control Through Zubimendi

   • Zubimendi’s role as a single pivot was a noticeable shift from Arsenal’s double-pivot shape seen in certain matches last season. His ability to play under pressure and find vertical passes helped bypass Bilbao’s midfield line.

   • This allowed Ødegaard to stay higher between the lines, creating more sustained attacking phases rather than recycling possession.

3. Width & Crossing Variation

   • Rather than relying solely on cut-backs, Arsenal mixed in more early crosses and deep deliveries. The opening goal — Gyökeres’ header — came from Zubimendi’s wide-right delivery, showing an intent to capitalise on aerial presence in the box.

   • Noni Madueke’s introduction in the second half maintained width on the right while freeing Saka to drift into half-spaces.

4. Frontline Fluidity

   • Gyökeres offered a more direct focal point than Havertz in the striker role, allowing wingers to attack second balls and pockets of space around him.

   • In later stages, Havertz came on and played as a free-roaming forward, linking midfield with attack — a flexibility that will be vital across multiple competitions.

In summary, this 3–0 win wasn’t just about the goals—it was the complete package: defensive composure, brilliant interplay, clinical finishing, and contributions from summer signings. Arsenal look poised and ready for what lies ahead.

Arsenal have decided to pursue a move for Martin Zubimendi for the summer of 2025. As per the reliable, Sami Mokbel’s exclusive on Mail Sport the deal is virtually complete. Arteta has been a key factor in convincing the Spanish midfielder having courted him for over 12 months. Arsenal will either activate his release clause or pay above the release clause to stagger the payments according to Fabrizio Romano.

Scout Report

Player Overview

• Name: Martín Zubimendi Ibáñez

• Date of Birth: 2 February 1999

• Nationality: Spanish

• Club: Real Sociedad (La Liga)

• Position: Defensive Midfielder / Deep-Lying Playmaker

• Preferred Foot: Right

Martín Zubimendi is a standout product of Real Sociedad’s famed Zubieta academy. Over the past few seasons, he has grown into a pivotal figure in the Basque club’s midfield, showcasing advanced tactical understanding, technical proficiency, and leadership qualities beyond his years. His composure on the ball and ability to read the game make him an enticing prospect for top-tier European teams seeking a modern “number 6” or deep-lying playmaker.

Key Attributes

1. Ball Progression & Distribution

• Passing Range:
  Zubimendi is adept at a variety of passes—short, crisp exchanges in tight spaces and longer diagonals to switch play. His vertical passing often helps break opponent lines, quickly transforming defense into attack.

• First Touch & Composure:
  Possesses a smooth first touch, enabling him to maneuver the ball away from pressing opponents. He rarely panics under duress, which is invaluable in high-intensity leagues.

2. Tactical Intelligence & Positioning

• Awareness & Spatial Control:
  One of Zubimendi’s biggest strengths is his ability to read the flow of the match. He positions himself to be the primary passing outlet for defenders and can also anticipate threats when the opposition is on the ball.

• Game Management:
  He recognizes when to speed up play with quick distribution or when to slow the tempo and reset. This sense of rhythm helps his team maintain control in crucial moments.

• Covering Ground:
  Though not the fastest midfielder, he compensates with excellent reading of the game, allowing him to intercept passes and provide cover in the right areas.

3. Defensive Contribution

• Interceptions & Tackling:
  Zubimendi’s approach is proactive rather than reactive. He identifies passing lanes early and executes timely interceptions, cutting off opposition attacks before they fully develop.

• Pressing Triggers:
  He coordinates the press effectively, cueing teammates to step forward while he plugs gaps behind them. His willingness to step out of the defensive line and challenge carriers can force mistakes.

• Work Rate & Discipline:
  Maintains disciplined positioning, rarely abandoning his midfield zone. His consistent work rate means he is often found supporting the fullbacks or covering for forward-minded teammates.

4. Psychological & Leadership Traits

• Mental Fortitude:
  Calm under pressure, whether pressed near his own box or in high-stakes matches. He regularly demands the ball, signifying confidence and a desire to dictate play.

• Team Player:
  Unselfish in his approach, focusing on linking defense and attack rather than seeking individual accolades. He holds himself to high standards and is seen rallying teammates on the pitch.

Areas for Growth

1. Physical Presence & Aerial Ability

   • While not weak, he could benefit from added upper-body strength to handle the Premier League’s physical demands. Improving his aerial game would also help in defensive set pieces and midfield duels.

2. Goal Contributions

   • His primary role at Real Sociedad is as an anchor and facilitator, resulting in modest goal and assist stats. Developing more assertive forward runs or honing his long-range shooting could make him a bigger threat in the final third.

3. Sustained Performance Over 90 Minutes

   • Although his stamina is improving, the tempo in the Premier League can be unforgiving. Maintaining peak levels of concentration and physical output for the entire match is crucial for a deep-lying midfielder in England.

What He Could Bring to Arsenal

1. Immediate Successor or Complement to Current Midfield Options

• Arsenal’s midfield under Mikel Arteta typically operates with a controlling “6” who drops between the center-backs to start the build-up. Zubimendi’s skill set closely aligns with this role:

  • For Thomas Partey / Jorginho: He offers a smoother distribution style and a Spanish-school emphasis on retaining possession. With both Partey and Jorginho likely to leave this summer, Zubimendi is a clear upgrade on both.

  • This is how he compares to both:

    

    

  • Compatibility with Declan Rice / Ødegaard: Zubimendi’s presence as a deep-lying playmaker would free more advanced midfielders (like Ødegaard) to operate higher up the pitch. If paired with a box-to-box player like Rice, Zubimendi’s composure at the base would allow Rice to press aggressively and join attacks without leaving the back line exposed.

2. Enhanced Build-Up and Control

• Press Resistance:
  Arsenal often faces high-pressing opponents, especially in top-six clashes. Zubimendi’s ability to receive under pressure, evade challenges, and accurately distribute the ball would be a major asset in overcoming the press.

• Smooth Transitions:
  He excels at quick link-up play and vertical passes through the lines. This can help Arsenal maintain fluidity and exploit the pace of their forward line and dynamic wide players.

3. Tactical Versatility & Depth

• Zubimendi can operate as a single pivot in a 4-3-3 or partner in a double pivot in a 4-2-3-1, giving Arteta flexibility in adjusting to different match situations.

• His intelligence and discipline make him viable in high-intensity matches where Arsenal need a stable base. He can drop deep to form a temporary back three in possession (similar to how Guardiola’s and Arteta’s systems often function).

4. Cultural & Stylistic Fit

• Spanish Influence & Possession Focus:
  Zubimendi’s familiarity with La Liga’s technical, possession-oriented play should align well with Arteta’s philosophy. The Spanish connection could also ease adaptation off the field.

• Long-Term Growth:
  At just 24-25 years old, he still has room to develop physically and evolve tactically. Under Arteta’s guidance, he could become a mainstay in Arsenal’s midfield for years.

Projection & Conclusion

Martín Zubimendi projects as one of Europe’s most refined defensive midfielders in the coming years. His advanced distribution, positional intelligence, and composure under pressure mark him out as a prime candidate for a top Premier League side.

At Arsenal, he would:

• Provide a stable passing hub to dictate tempo.

• Fit seamlessly into a high-possession, quick-transition system.

• Strengthen midfield depth and competition, ensuring top performances week in, week out.

He would also allow Mikel Arteta to try his diamond formation with Zubimendi as the DLP inverting from Right Back:

Arteta has previously tried this formation against Nottingham Forest in 2023, however a Jurrien Timber ACL injury and Thomas Partey’s physical decline saw it never tried again. Here it is in action:

If he continues to refine his physical attributes and adds an extra layer of attacking output, Zubimendi could develop into one of the Premier League’s standout pivot midfielders—capable of anchoring an ambitious Arsenal side competing domestically and in Europe.

Arsenal and Brighton played to a 1-1 draw at the Emirates, a draw that should have been an Arsenal win. The Gunners were in complete control of the match and winning 1-0 when Chris Kavanagh, who had been poor the entire game, decided to make himself the star and gave Declan Rice an absurd second yellow card. Rice, by the way, will miss the trip to Tottenham after the international break.

Prior to kick-off, the feeling around the club was a positive atmosphere, following the deadline-day deal to bring Raheem Sterling to the club on loan from Chelsea on favourable terms. That continued when Havertz lobbed Verbruggen for a delightful strike after a touch by Saka to set him up.

But it all started to go downhill for the Gunners from there.

Boss Mikel Arteta had his head in his hands when, having already been booked for a late foul on Veltman, midfielder Rice nudged the ball away from the Dutchman and knew a second yellow card was coming. On his 245th Premier League appearance, this was Rice's first ever red card.

Arsenal lost any control they had in the match when they went down to 10 men, and conceded an equaliser shortly after. On the goal, the centerbacks got pulled too far apart but did well enough to alter the initial shot. David Raya made a good save, but the rebound went right to Joao Pedro, who had an empty net. Pedro was completely unmarked at the top of the box because Thomas Partey was jogging back, watched Pedro run by him, and didn’t even try to catch up.

Arsenal showed good fight and determination to stay in the game after the equaliser. Saka and Havertz also had decent opportunities on the counter, but couldn’t quite finish. Losing Rice for one match will be a blow to Arteta who will be without new signing Mikel Merino for a number of weeks with a suspected fractured shoulder that he picked up in his first training session with the club.

Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino is Arsenal’s priority target for the midfield and Arsenals priority incoming right now. Personal terms have been agreed for a 4 year contract. Merino is excited by the project and wants to join immediately. ArsenalZone understands a verbal fee of around £22m has been agreed and now payment terms are being discussed. Expect to see Merino in Arsenal red very soon.

Nico Williams

Nico Williams is a coveted star in this transfer window after his stellar Euro 2024. Barcelona are leading the chase for him, and Bilbao are trying their best to convince him to stay. Williams has rejected approaches from PSG. Arsenal are yet to make an approach, however ArsenalZone understands they are lurking in the shadows incase a move to Barcelona fails to materialise. Williams is Arteta’s priority winger target.

Leroy Sane

There was much talk of a mystery German joining Arsenal this summer. This player turned out to be Leroy Sane. Unfortunately, ArsenalZone understands the deal was never advanced. Arsenal do hold an interest in the player though, but no discussions have taken place. There is a feeling that if Bayern sign attacking assets a move may be there to be done. This is a deal to watch at the end of the window.

Outgoings:

Nketiah

Olympique Marseille have been hot on the trail of Eddie Nketiah this summer. Nketiah has agreed personal terms with Marseille and wants to join after discussions with De Zerbi. Arsenal initially wanted €35m, but have now dropped the asking price to €30m. Marseille have had three rejected bids and have now made a new one which is short of the €30m being asked for. Negotiations continue with the deal likely to be a loan with obligation. ArsenalZone understands that the gap in valuations is not an amount that is too large to be negotiated. Nketiah’s agent was also in Marseille over the past few days.

Ramsdale

Aaron Ramsdale future at Arsenal looks bleak. The player wants to move on to gain first team football. A number of teams have registered interest in the player including Wolves, Southampton, Newcastle and Forest. ArsenalZone understands the only club to approach the players entourage is Southampton. Ramsdale is interested in a move to Southampton, however Southampton can only afford a loan. Arsenal do not want a loan at this stage. Wolves have made an inquiry during talks for Dan Bentley. Newcastle is also one to watch in the final weeks of the window.

Arsenal have got a contract offer ready for Mikel Merino who has told the club he would be interested in joining. The player also has interest from Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, however Arsenal are confident of securing the player after speaking to the players’s camp. An offer of around £25m is understood to be satisfactory for Real Sociedad as the player has told them he would like to leave. Real Sociedad are trying to convince the player to stay though. ArsenalZone understands that the sale of ESR to Fulham would need to go through before the pursuit of Mikel Merino officially starts. Fulham are close to reaching an agreement with Arsenal for a full £35m package.

Arsenal have reached a full agreement for £38m with Bologna to attain the services of Ricardo Calafiori. Bologna will have a 10% sell on clause included in the deal. An agreement was reached yesterday, however Basel and Bologna had to reach a payment regarding the 50% sell on clause. This has now been resolved and Ricardo Calafiori will have his Arsenal medical in the next few days. It is unclear whether he will join the USA tour, but the expectation is that he may join alongside Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magelhaes.

Arsenal have been in negotiations for 3 weeks with Bologna after an agreement on personal terms was reached on the 5th of July. Bologna made it tough for Arsenal as they had concerns over the 50% sell on clause. Calafiori has also rejected multiple approaches from other clubs including Real Madrid, Juventus and Chelsea to join Arsenal. The reason for this is the strong will of Mikel Arteta to bring the Italian international to Arsenal. Arteta and Edu spoke directly to Calafiori and convinced him of the Arsenal project. Mikel Arteta was the real driving force behind this deal as other members in Arsenal had doubts over the deal. The defender will sign a contract until 2029 earning net £4m per season.

Incomings

Ricardo Calafiori

Calafiori has agreed personal terms for a contract until 2029. This contract has been agreed since the 5th of July. Arsenal have been in negotiations with Bologna for over 2 weeks and only slow progress has been made. Arsenal initially offered €40m + €10m in add ons which was knocked back by Bologna due to Basel having a 50% sell on clause. Both clubs tried to include Kiwior in negotiations but the player rejected the move. Arsenal latest offer is €47m + €3m in add ons. Bologna want €50m + €3m in add ons and there is hope an agreement can be reached by early next week.

Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino has been heavily linked with Arsenal through various links. At the current time, three clubs hold strong interest in the Spanish international. Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Arsenal. It is understood Atletico Madrid are ready to make an offer for Merino. However, Merino is waiting to make a decision with Arsenal and Barcelona also interested. If Merino is to join Arsenal he would provide a solution to the Granit Xhaka left hole.

Dan Bentley

Dan Bentley has been identified by Arsenal to join as 3rd choice keeper. Arsenal have made an offer of £50k, which was swiftly rejected by Wolves. Wolves want more than £1m and Arsenal are expected to go in with a second offer. Arsenal GK options for the USA tour are a limited and may act swiftly to wrap up a deal for Bentley.

Tommy Setford

Tommy Setford has been targeted by Arsenal for his potential as a GK. The 18 year old has been playing in the Ajax academy. Arsenal have reached an agreement with Ajax for a fee of €1m + add ons. We understand the player has signed his contract and had his medical. Only the announcement now waits for the signing of Tommy Setford.

Nico Williams

Nico Williams has been a hot topic since his stellar Euro 2024 campaign. However, ArsenalZone understands Arsenal made attempts to sign Nico Williams before Euro 2024. Arsenal were told that Williams priority is Barcelona. Barcelona are current favourites to land the Spanish international but will need to find the funds to trigger his €58m release clause, required to be payed all up front. Chelsea also hold strong interest and have done background work on Williams. However, ArsenalZone understands if Barcelona can’t stump up the money, Arsenal will be in prime position to swoop in on the player. But a move looks like unlikely as it stands with Barcelona as clear favourites.

Outgoings

Emile Smith-Rowe

Emile Smith-Rowe has been subject to interest by Crystal Palace and Fulham. Fulham have had a £25m + £5m add ons bid rejected by Arsenal. Fulham are expected to make a second improved offer. Crystal Palace are also ready to materialise their interest by making a £30m + £5m add ons bid. Arsenal are also expected to reject this offer as they hold out for £40m. Arteta doesn’t particularly want to let ESR go, although if a £40m bid he would reluctantly agree.

Eddie Nketiah

Eddie Nketiah has strong interest from Marseille. ArsenalZone understands Nketiah would welcome a move to Marseille. Marseille have made a £20m offer for Nketiah but Arsenal have rejected this offer. Arsenal want between £40-50m for Nketiah. Premier League clubs such as Brentford, Fulham and Crystal Palace also hold interest but have that interest has yet to materialise.

Reiss Nelson

West Ham are clear front runners in the case of Reiss Nelson. ArsenalZone understands Reiss Nelson has an agreement in principle regarding personal terms to join West Ham. Arsenal want between £15m-20m. West Ham yet to make an offer, but an offer is expected. Crystal Palace have also shown interest.

Aaron Ramsdale

Aaron Ramsdale had a tough 23/24 season and it is understood he would like to move to gain first team football. Southampton so far have shown the strongest interest. However, they may struggle to stump up Arsenal’s £40m price tag. Newcastle also hold an interest but they only value Ramsdale at £20m. Arsenal may be forced to let the player leave on loan as the time ticks towards the end of the window.

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Arsenal emphatically dispatched Sevilla in their final pre season game before the season begins. Gabriel Jesus netted a hat-rick on his Emirates debut, with Bukayo Saka getting a brace and Eddie Nketiah scoring late on. The gunners have continued their fantastic form in pre season making it 6 wins from 6. Mikel Arteta’s side have impressed massively during this pre-season and have embedded two fantastic signings in to the team of Zinchenko and Jesus.

The Press

Arsenal continued their trend of starting games extremely quick by pressing really high up the pitch. Arteta has evolved the press to be more aggressive by pushing the full backs up to join the press. Arteta has set Arsenal up to press in a 4-4-1-1 pressing shape. The furthest forward player will press the opposition CB and the second forward player pressing the 6 of the opposition. The 2 front players rotate the press and then this allows players like Saka to press the opposition full backs. Ben white ( playing as the inverted RB in this game ) then follows Saka and pushes up to press. William Saliba also joined the press if the ball bypassed the early press. This new high pressing style of Arsenal has resulted in many turnovers, creating more goalscoring chances. This was evident on the 4th goal that Arsenal scored.

The Shape

Arsenal set up with an in possession shape of 2-3-5 in attack. Saliba and Gabriel stayed in the defence to be sweepers for any counters. The full backs were inverted and played alongside Partey in the heart of midfield, with Zinchenko covering the left and White on the right. Arsenal then played a 5 in attack when in possession. Martinelli and Saka stayed wide and high on their wings, with Odegaard and Xhaka playing as two advanced 8’s in the pockets with Gabriel Jesus up top. Arsenal rotated positions really well in this game especially the front three. Zinchenko would sometimes drop into the 6 role of Partey and Jesus would drop deep and cover on the wings. The 2-3-5 shape is shown below:

In defence Arsenal pushed back into a mid block of 4-4-2. Odegaard and Jesus stayed up, with Saka, Martinelli, Partey and Xhaka making a midfield bank of 4. The 4 at the back were Saliba, Gabriel, White and Zinchenko. This mid block was extremely successful at not allowing Sevilla to play through the line and break Arsenal down.

A fantastic performance from Arsenal in the end, making us fans extremely excited for the new season ahead. Players to watch out for in this Arsenal team this season is Jesus, Zinchenko and Martinelli. Ramsdale has also gained his confidence back and is pinging accurate passes to Martinelli on the break. Mikel Arteta has got Arsenal on the right track and the Project will explode soon.

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