Arsenal have played five matches in their 2023 pre-season campaign so far and have managed to win two matches, drawing two and losing once.
A quick look at the Gunners’ preseason results so far:
- 1-1 vs Watford
- 1-1 vs FC Nürnberg
- 5-0 win vs MLS All-Stars
- 2-0 loss vs Manchester United
- 5-3 win vs FC Barcelona
Despite only losing one game in their first five friendlies this summer, there have been question marks over Mikel Arteta’s side already. In their first two fixtures, they failed to pick up a win against lesser opposition, in Championship side Watford and 2.Bundesliga club FC Nürnberg.
Then followed a comfortable 5-0 win against the MLS All-Stars in which Arsenal looked like they were back to their quality of last season, but a poor 2-0 loss to fellow Premier League side Manchester United raised eyebrows for the wrong reasons.
New signing Kai Havertz came under fire after his performances against FC Nürnberg and Manchester United, but he was quick to silence his doubters with a goal against Barcelona. Confidence will be key for the German, who suffered criticism for his performances at Chelsea last season.
Havertz has so far featured in a midfield three for Arsenal, which has also included the likes of Thomas Partey, Martin Ødegaard, and Declan Rice.
Other new signings such as Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber haven’t hit the ground running either, as Declan Rice was outshone by Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo, and missed the Gunners’ 5-3 win vs Barcelona due to injury. Timber gave away a lazy free-kick against the Spanish champions, which did lead to a goal from the set-piece, albeit taking a deflection off Ødegaard.
However, Arsenal’s front three – whoever is in it – know how to score goals. Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Marquinhos, Leandro Trussardi and Gabriel Martinelli combined have 10 goal involvements. These players have all featured in the Gunners’ front three and the fact they’re finding goals is a huge positive for Arteta.
The talent Arsenal have going forward is clear to see and some of the goals scored by the side from the Emirates Stadium have been world-class. No matter who plays in the attacking positions in pre-season, they seem to deliver for the side, which is a huge positive going into the upcoming campaign.
In defence, some poor mistakes have been made leading to goals. For example, a miskick against Manchester United and a poor save gave the Red Devils two goals against the 2022-23 Premier League runners-up. Only one clean sheet in five games and seven goals conceded will be a concern for Arteta.
Although it’s early days, there are plenty of positives and negatives for Arteta to mull over. His side have had so much success at the top end of the pitch in front of goal, but have struggled to keep the ball out of the back of their own net at times.
