Arsenal’s Asian preseason tour ended with a narrow 1-0 defeat to their arch rival Tottenham as fans first got a glimpse of new striker Viktor Gyokeres
Mikel Arteta hit a rebellious tone despite Arsenal falling 1-0 to Hong Kong’s arch rival Tottenham, the sole defeat of Asia’s preseason tour.
The Gunners boss admitted that the outcome left a “bad taste”, but insisted that the experience was worth it as his side strengthens preparation for the new Premier League season.
He states:
“We’re ahead of what we expected in many areas, and despite this result leaves a taste, I think it’s going to be positive. It reminds us how great the margin between victory and loss is.
Arsenal returned to London on Friday to close the preseason with a friendly home between Villarreal and Athletic Bilbao before launching a league campaign with Manchester United on August 17th.
read more: Transfer News Live: Man Utd’s Sesko Talks, Liverpool’s ISAK bid, Arsenal’s weight two dealsread more: Viktor Gyoker refuses to follow the agent’s lead in the “Sling of Mud” drama after Arsenal’s move
During the match in Hong Kong, new striker Viktor Gyoker played a quiet 15-minute minute minutes, making his debut a later replacement. However, Arteta is sure that the Swedish forward will soon show his true quality.
“It was a short one, but at least that debut was no longer intrusive now,” Arteta said. “Next time, I’m sure that’s not true for Emirates’ Villarreal.”
He also praised 20-year-old Portuguese defender Christian Mosquera. “I’m so happy to have both here,” Arteta said. “They add a lot of value. You’ll see the energy and quality they bring right away.”
There’s even better news on the injury, with Arteta revealing that Gabriel, Riccardo Calfioli and Julien Timberber (all absent from Hong Kong) are expected to be suitable for the season opener.
“We’re in a good place,” he added. “Now we’re focusing on strong preseason finishes.”
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