Arsenal closed the pre-season friendly series with a 1-1 draw against Como at the Emirates, before winning in the penalty shootout. The result is not too important, but this performance still brings Mikel Arteta many good signs before the confrontation with Manchester City in the English Super Cup.
Arsenal took the lead after halftime when Myles Lewis-Skelly took advantage of goalkeeper Jean Butez's mistake. Gabriel Martinelli quickly took the ball and returned it back for this young midfielder to finish, putting the home team ahead.
However, Arsenal's advantage only existed for a short time. Martin Baturina created an impressive handling on the left wing before launching a dangerous shot, defeating Kepa Arrizabalaga and bringing the match back to the starting line.
Neither side found a decisive goal in the remaining time. In the penalty shootout, newcomer Christos Tzolis successfully converted the decisive kick, helping Arsenal close the match against Como with a victory.
The biggest highlight for the "Gunners" is probably Bruno Guimaraes' debut. The £75 million rookie was brought on in the second half and immediately showed dynamism in the midfield area.
Guimaraes plays right in front of the defense, alongside Lewis-Skelly. The Brazilian midfielder's ability to compete, recover the ball and support defense helps Arsenal control the midfield better. His appearance also creates conditions for Lewis-Skelly to freely push high.
This is a positive sign for Arteta as Arsenal prepares to enter the new season. Guimaraes not only adds quality but also brings another tactical option for the midfield.
Meanwhile, Lewis-Skelly continues to send a strong message amidst rumors about the future. The 19-year-old player is arranged to play as a defensive midfielder but often finds ways to penetrate the attacking area. The opening goal is a worthy reward for his proactive performance.
However, Arsenal still has problems to solve. The defense continues to make Arteta think after The Gunners let Como score from one of the few clear chances created by the opponent. Before that, they also conceded 3 goals in matches against Real Betis and Borussia Dortmund.
If similar gaps appear when facing Man City, Arsenal will certainly pay a higher price. The English Super Cup match is therefore not simply a season start match but also a test for the "Gunners'" defensive ability.
Arteta also has to consider the future of some young players. Marli Salmon impressed when pairing with Gabriel Magalhaes in the context of William Saliba's absence. Although only 16 years old, this center-back shows calmness and remarkable ball deployment support ability.
Ethan Nwaneri also took advantage of the opportunity given. Because Declan Rice has not returned after the 2026 World Cup, this young midfielder was arranged to play lower than usual. Nwaneri actively pressed and contributed to creating some chances in the first half before being substituted out after halftime.
Arsenal enters the new season with a deeper squad and more choices. But that competition also puts Arteta in front of difficult decisions. After the match against Como, the Spanish strategist will have to quickly find the optimal formula before Arsenal clashes with Man City.
