5 Key Takeaways from Arsenal's Dominant Win Over Bayer Leverkusen

Arsenal Prepares for Premier League with Win Over Leverkusen

In their penultimate pre-season friendly, Arsenal displayed their readiness for the Premier League by convincingly defeating Bundesliga's Bayer Leverkusen. Goals from Oleksandr Zinchenko, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus secured a comprehensive win at the Emirates Stadium.

1. Riccardo Calafiori's Absence and Potential Impact

Arsenal fans eagerly awaited the debut of new £42m defender Riccardo Calafiori, whose merchandise was already popular outside the Emirates. However, he missed the match as he continues to adapt to Arsenal’s training methods. Mikel Arteta expects Calafiori to be ready for the match against Lyon but his readiness for the Premier League opener against Wolves remains uncertain.

2. Gabriel Jesus Shows Promise

Gabriel Jesus, who has struggled with form and fitness over the past 18 months, demonstrated his potential by scoring a crucial goal. His persistent efforts and precise finish against Leverkusen's defense reignited hopes of him leading Arsenal's attack this season. Jesus’s performance could delay Arsenal's search for a new No. 9.

3. Kai Havertz's Versatility

Kai Havertz proved his worth by excelling in multiple roles. He assisted in Arsenal’s first two goals and scored the fourth, showcasing his adaptability and skill. Havertz's performance indicates that he is set to continue his strong form from the previous season, making him a valuable asset for Arteta.

4. Promising Youth: Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly

Arsenal's future looks bright with standout performances from teenagers Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Nwaneri, the Premier League's youngest-ever player, contributed to the fourth goal, while Lewis-Skelly impressed with his composure and defensive skills. Arteta’s confidence in these academy graduates could see them playing significant roles this season.

5. Granit Xhaka's Emotional Return

Granit Xhaka received a warm reception from the Emirates crowd in his return with Leverkusen. Despite a mixed performance where he was partly at fault for Arsenal's fourth goal, Xhaka’s emotional connection with the fans was evident. Arteta praised Xhaka’s contributions to Arsenal, highlighting the strong bond between the player and the club.

Arsenal's victory over Bayer Leverkusen not only boosts their confidence but also provides valuable insights into their squad's strengths and areas for improvement as they approach the new Premier League season.