Viktor Gyökeres and Cristhian Mosquera made their non-competitive first team debuts against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday, 31st July, and Mikel Arteta has shared his thoughts on their performances. Both came on as second half substitutes but had limited time to make an impact in Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat.
Following much anticipation around their arrivals, particularly Gyökeres, supporters were eager to see the new signings in the iconic red and white. Neither player has seen much action in pre-season so far, with Gyökeres only joining the squad a week ago. However, Arteta believes things will look quite different when Arsenal face Villarreal at the Emirates on Wednesday.
Arteta pleased with early signs from new arrivals
Speaking to reporters after the match, Arteta expressed his excitement at having both players in the squad and suggested they may feature more prominently in the next friendly. As quoted by Arsenal media, he said:
“Really happy obviously to have them here. I think they’re going to have a lot of value. You see this right away, as well as the energy and the quality that they’re going to bring. It was a short one but at least that one is off now and when they play against Villarreal now, I’m sure it will be a bit different.”
The Spaniard’s comments hint that Gyökeres and Mosquera could be handed more minutes as they continue to integrate into the team and adapt to Arsenal’s style of play.
Building match fitness ahead of the new season
Prior to the Spurs clash, Mosquera had not featured in a competitive game since 21 June, while Gyökeres last played at the end of May. The Swedish forward is still building fitness, having missed a full pre-season with Sporting. With matches against Villarreal and Athletic Club to come, as well as key training sessions in between, the next couple of weeks will be vital in helping both players get match-ready.
Both upcoming fixtures will also give Gyökeres and Mosquera a chance to familiarise themselves with their new home ground, with both matches set to take place at the Emirates Stadium.
What did you make of their cameos against Spurs, Gooners?
Benjamin Kenneth
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