Arsenal's Arteta Assesses Gyokeres' Debut in Pre-Season Loss

Arsenal Boss Arteta Confident in New Signing Gyokeres Ahead of Premier League Season

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed confidence that £64 million signing Viktor Gyokeres will be well-prepared for the upcoming Premier League season following his first pre-season start. Gyokeres made his home debut at the Emirates Stadium in a 3-2 loss to Villarreal, where he played for an hour and had limited scoring opportunities.

Despite a strong strike saved by the Villarreal goalkeeper, Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal from Sporting Lisbon, showcased promise. Arteta highlighted the importance of Gyokeres getting match experience and building connections with the team, considering his limited training time since the move.

Arteta praised Gyokeres' progress in training and expressed optimism about his fitness level improving as he integrates further with the team. Arsenal will face Athletic Club in the Emirates Cup before their Premier League opener against Manchester United on August 17, with hopes of having Kai Havertz back from injury.

Fifteen-year-old academy player Max Dowman impressed during pre-season, winning a penalty against Villarreal and drawing praise from Arteta and captain Martin Odegaard. Despite his young age, Dowman's impactful performances have caught the attention of the coaching staff, with Arteta indicating he could earn more opportunities if he maintains his current form.