Arteta focusing on departures after successful tour of America
Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the United States of America came to an end this morning as they defeated FC Barcelona 5-3 at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
After ten gruelling days in the hot and humid temperatures of Washington, New Jersey and Los Angeles, the Gunners return to England after another positive tour, having faced the MLS All-Stars, Manchester United and finally Barcelona.
With new signings, returning loanees and exciting youngsters, it was the perfect opportunity for Mikel Arteta to analyse what shape his Arsenal team were in, and set the tone for the season ahead.
Getting the signings in early
In a situation similar to last season, the Gunners were able to get the bulk of their transfer business done before they flew to the US, with the big-money acquisitions of Jurrien Timber, Kai Havertz and Declan Rice from Ajax, Chelsea and West Ham respectively.
All three enjoyed a productive camp, with Havertz scoring twice, whilst Timber integrated into the Arsenal with such ease. Rice, who debuted against the MLS All-Stars, was only able to play in two matches, being left out of the squad against Barcelona as a precaution.
For Arteta, now is the time to focus on potential departures, with the 41-year-old Spanaird claiming the size of his current squad is “unsustainable.”
Leandro Trossard impresses
A fantastic mid-season switch to north London from Brighton last campaign, the Belgian forward racked up one goal and ten assists for Arteta’s side after arriving in January, and has had an excellent pre-season thus far.
Scoring a beautifully curled effort into the top corner against the MLS All-Stars to get the ball rolling for his tour, before finishing off his time in the States with a brace against the Spanish
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