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10h ago

Arsenal’s Defensive Frailties Cost Them in 3-2 Loss to Villarreal

Arteta has demanded defensive improvements ahead of Saturday’s final warm-up against Athletic Bilbao before the Premier League opener at Old Old Trafford.

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Arsenal FC v Villarreal CF, Pre-Season Friendly Christian Norgaard of Arsenal during the Arsenal FC v Villarreal CF Pre-Season friendly match at the Emirates Stadium, London, England, United Kingdom on 6 August 2025 Credit: Katie Chan/Every Second Media Editorial use only. All images are copyright Every Second Media Limited. No images may be reproduced without prior permission. Copyright: xIMAGO/EveryxSecondxMediax ESM-1543-0109 KatiexChanx/xEveryxSecondxMediax
Soccer Football - Friendly - Arsenal v Villarreal - Emirates Stadium, London, Britain - August 6, 2025 Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra
Viktor Gyokeres Arsenal 2025

Overview

  • Arsenal conceded three goals at the Emirates Stadium in their second successive pre-season defeat after Mikel Arteta labelled their defending “naive” in open spaces.
  • Arteta has called for urgent defensive improvements to solidify squad cohesion and tactical discipline ahead of the new season.
  • Viktor Gyökeres made his first Arsenal start but managed just 14 touches in 62 minutes after limited training sessions, though Arteta believes he will be fully ready for the Premier League opener.
  • New signing Christian Norgaard delivered a 100 percent passing performance, capped by a headed goal from a corner, underlining his early impact in midfield.
  • Fifteen-year-old Max Dowman won a penalty with his composure on the wing, highlighting the promise of Arsenal’s academy as they finalise pre-season preparations.