Arsenal fans were given a small but exciting glimpse into the future on Friday, as the team played their first pre-season friendly of the summer.
The Gunners trailed 2-0 at half time against Nuremberg, before the introduction of new signing Gabriel Jesus at the interval triggered a scoring spree. The the £45 million Brazilian netted Arsenal’s first and fifth goal, as they recovered to win 5-3.
While there were plenty of positives to take from the second half, the opening 45 minutes did provide a sobering reminder of how much manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu still have to do in the transfer window.
Mirror Sport has all of your latest Arsenal headlines.
How many goals with Jesus score in his first season at the Emirates Stadium? Let us know in the comments section below!
Wright delights at Jesus performance
Given Arsenal’s lack of potency up top last season and the fee paid to bring him to north London, there will naturally be a lot of pressure on him to perform in the coming months and years.
So the former Manchester City man would have been delighted to get an endorsement from Gunners goalscoring legend Ian Wright after his impressive first outing.
While Jesus has plenty of qualities, against Nuremberg he was ruthless in front of goal, knocking in two finishes from tight angles. Wright was in attendance to see the forward in action and had some words of encouragement when the two crossed paths.
“Jesus, man,” he said. “Nice finishing. It’s happening, bro! It’s so good to be among this Arsenal team. To feel the energy.”
Read the story in full HERE.
Wenger makes Wilshere prediction
Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes Jack Wilshere is set up for a strong career in coaching following his retirement from football.
Having had his playing career ravaged by numerous injury layoffs, Wilshere confirmed on Friday that he will be hanging up his boots. The 30-year-old is now expected to take on a coaching role with the Gunners.
Wenger gave Wilshere his debut and helped nurture him into one of the most exciting prospects in world football before the fitness problems struck. The Frenchman said he expects his former player to have success In his new chapter.
“First of all, he has a great understanding of the game,” he said. “He’s brave, he’s got great communication skills, he’s honest and he’s intelligent.
“On top of that, he’s had a frustrating end to his playing career. If he manages to turn that frustration into motivation and shows how good he is in football, I think he has a promising coaching career in front of him.”
Read the story in full HERE.
(
2016 Getty Images)
Torreira agent drops hint
The agent for Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira has hinted that the player could be part of Arteta’s plans this season, that despite seemingly being out of favour in north London.
The Uruguayan arrived at the Emirates Stadium to huge excitement and had an encouraging start to life with the Gunners. However, his form dropped off and he spent the last two seasons on loan, first at Atletico Madrid and then at Fiorentina.
However, with Fiorentina seemingly unable to afford to sign the 25-year-old on a permanent basis, the player’s agent has suggested he could yet play a role for the Premier League club this season.
“Torreira would like to stay and play in Italy but as of today, Arsenal have called him up for the tour they will do in America, so it looks like he’s part of their plan,” said his representative.
Read the story in full HERE.
Read More
Read More
