Arsenal’s preseason started on a bit of a sour note with a shootout victory over Bournemouth at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on Wednesday night.
The match ended 1-1 in regular time, with Fabio Vieira scoring Arsenal’s only goal in the 18th minute, thanks to an assist from Reiss Nelson.
However, the equalizer from Antoine Semenyo in the 73rd minute meant the game was decided by penalties, which Arsenal eventually won on their sixth attempt.
Once again, Arsenal faces the ongoing puzzle of who will fill the left back position.
Last season saw a mix of Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jakub Kiwior, and Oleksandr Zinchenko trying to fill the role, with varying degrees of success.
Tomiyasu, the most reliable of the bunch, is injured again, and the anticipated signing Riccardo Calafiori hasn’t joined the team yet.
This opened the door for Myles Lewis-Skelly to start at left back.
Lewis-Skelly, who has mostly played in midfield for the academy, made a solid impression.
Mikel Arteta has been grooming the 17-year-old as an inverted left back, similar to Zinchenko.
In this game, Lewis-Skelly showed promise with his defensive skills and his ability to support the attack, even though he was knocked down after a notable run.
His performance suggests he might be a valuable addition to the first-team squad this season.
Nwaneri Seizes His Chance
Ethan Nwaneri, the youngest-ever Premier League player at just 15 years and 181 days, had been waiting for more opportunities.
He came on in the 77th minute of Arsenal’s 6-0 victory over West Ham in February but hasn’t featured much since.
This game was crucial for him, and he took full advantage.
His confident dribbling and pace were evident, though he still needs more game time to fully develop.
Arteta’s decision to integrate Nwaneri into the squad remains uncertain, and if regular minutes aren’t forthcoming, a loan move might be a viable option.
Emile Smith Rowe’s Potential Departure
Earlier in the day, reports surfaced that Fulham is nearing a deal for Emile Smith Rowe.
His lack of involvement in the game, despite several substitutions, hints at his impending exit.
This move seems to be a final gesture of sorts, given his recent role as captain for the last 20 minutes against Leyton Orient.
If the reported £35 million transfer fee is accurate, it could be a win-win for all involved.
After a season plagued by injuries and limited starts, Smith Rowe will likely be eager to get regular playing time elsewhere.
While his departure may mark the end of the “Saka and Emile Smith Rowe” song, his key contributions during the 2021-22 season won’t be forgotten.
Arsenal Brings a Fresh Batch of Academy Talent to the US
Last year, Arsenal took just one academy player, Amario Cozier-Duberry, on their US preseason tour.
This year, with senior players like Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka getting extra rest after the Euros, the club brought along 12 young talents.
Despite the departures of promising players like Cozier-Duberry and Reuell Walters, and the potential exit of Chido Obi-Martin, the tour offers a chance for these academy players to prove their worth and perhaps secure their place in the future of the club.
Timber’s Promising Return
It was great to see Jurrien Timber back in action after a lengthy recovery from an ACL injury.
Playing as a center back, a role he’s familiar with despite being new to Arsenal, Timber made an impact.
His physical presence was felt, particularly in his aggressive tackles, earning him a yellow card in the 53rd minute.
Timber’s return is a significant boost for Arsenal, offering a glimpse of the defensive strength he brings to the team.
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