Arsenal enjoyed an excellent second game of pre-season – a 5-1 win against Paris Saint-Germain in Singapore.
If we’re being picky, the team started the match a little sloppily but grew into the match; Ozil scored against the run of play in the 13th minute before PSG equalised with a penalty.
We looked a little disappointing in the pre-season opener against Athletico Madrid, which ended in a penalty shoot-out defeat.
This though, was a scintillating display and while of course not too much should be ready into games until our first competitive match against Man City, it’s hard not to be encouraged.
What fellow Gooners should be happy about is the strength shown in a midfield that looked a tad skeletal last term.
19-year-old Matteo Guendouzi, who was declared Man of the Match, bossed the midfield like a seasoned professional. The youngster looks fearless and now has the chance to establish himself in the team before the World Cup performers return to full fitness. Here’s what fans have been saying about the summer signing.
The boys played very well today,good result from the young stars,Especially Guendouzi he was oustanding
— Mkhitaryan (@Alvinn_AFC) July 28, 2018
Guendouzi has impressed me more in this pre season than Elneny has ever done in terms of his passing range & ability to break the lines. Same can be said with Coquelin too.
— Rudy (@RudyAFC) July 28, 2018
Good that we have got Guendouzi before Monaco/Lyon.
In a year or 2, his price tag may be easily 4-5 times than the amount we got him.
Sven an Dof..!!
— v!p (@vp_afc) July 28, 2018
Matteo Guendouzi is a beauty to watch. #afc
— UGO (@Yuggiio) July 28, 2018
Guendouzi has to start over Xhaka against City.
— Josh (@AfcJosh_) July 28, 2018
Guendouzi might be a little heavy in the tackle but isn’t especially dirty and seems happy to seek the ball from more established players. With his performances so far it is safe to say he could grow into an important figure.
The debut of Lucas Torreira and the returning Xhaka is highly anticipated which will make for an interesting analysis on how Unai Emery will set up his midfield.
Another thing that cut the eye was the way Arsenal set up from the onset of the game. The front three looked sharp especially Lacazette who bagged a brace in the game.
The midfield showed energy and the defense was inch perfect against a team that of course was missing most of its stars due to participation in the World Cup.
Gunners fans are always patient and optimistic even in the face of poor performances. It seems that their optimism might be genuine given their outstanding outing against Paris Saint Germain.
I love the way Guendouzi play