Raya and Tzolis win the shootout
Pre-season ended on penalties. Arsenal 1–1 Como, then 4–3 in the shootout, with Christos Tzolis scoring the winner and David Raya making the saves (5). Myles Lewis-Skelly opened the scoring in normal time (7). New signing Bruno Guimaraes made his debut and converted his penalty (9). Morata missed his attempt for Como (12).
Fabregas back at the Emirates
Cesc Fabregas returned to the Emirates as Como manager, going up against Mikel Arteta on the touchline (12). The 1–1 draw in normal time meant the shootout decided it, and Arsenal finished pre-season with a win.
Arteta wants more signings
Arteta is not done in the market. "There is more that we want to do, because every time we have an opportunity to improve the squad and bring more quality and depth, we need to do that" (1). He admits the pool of players good enough for the champions is small (3) (13).
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Galatasaray bid for Martinelli
Galatasaray have submitted a €45m offer for Gabriel Martinelli (10). The Brazilian is not pushing to leave Arsenal, and would only consider a move to one of Europe's strongest leagues if he did go, per James McNicholas (10). Fabrizio Romano says Arsenal have also made contact over another Atletico Madrid player (6).
Lewis-Skelly speculation
Arteta brushed off the links around Myles Lewis-Skelly, saying he welcomes players being connected to other clubs (4). Earlier reports had Lewis-Skelly offered to Chelsea and Manchester United, with both declining a £45m move.
Konsa talks continue
Arsenal have held further talks over Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa, though Villa's European commitments complicate any deal (8).
Nelson's future
Reiss Nelson's Arsenal career looks over, with West Ham interested (11). An opinion piece asks whether it is time for him to accept it.
Coventry next
The real business starts Friday, August 21, when Arsenal host Coventry City in the Premier League opener (21:00 CEST).
Fan-reaktioner
The mood around the Fabregas return is warm, with fans sharing his praise for Arsenal's faith in Arteta's project. The Martinelli bid has supporters split, many agreeing with the report that he would only leave for a stronger league. There is also genuine excitement about Bruno, with the club itself posting his first message to fans. See the full discussion.
