July 25th 2024.
Arsenal's manager Mikel Arteta was seen intently observing his team during a pre-season friendly against Bournemouth. The game, which took place in California, saw the Gunners face off against their opponents in a 1-1 draw, with Arsenal ultimately winning in a penalty shootout. Arteta took the opportunity to give some of the club's promising young players a chance to shine, including Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Jesus, and Ben White. However, one notable absence from the game was Emile Smith Rowe, who was named as an unused substitute.
Prior to the match, reports had surfaced that Smith Rowe was on the verge of completing a £35 million move to Fulham. When asked about the midfielder's future, Arteta confirmed that there were indeed developments happening behind the scenes and that they had decided not to use him in the game. Along with Smith Rowe, the futures of fellow academy graduates Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson are also the subject of speculation, with moves to Marseille and Leicester reportedly in the works.
Despite the potential departures, Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the players currently at the club, highlighting their impressive performances in the friendly against Bournemouth. He also addressed the ongoing transfer rumors, stating that it is normal for players to be linked with moves and that he prefers to focus on the players he has at his disposal.
Meanwhile, Arsenal is also in the process of finalizing their first major signing of the summer, with Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori set to join the team. Progress has been made in the deal, with any delays being resolved between Bologna and Basel over a sell-on clause. When asked about the transfer, Arteta remained tight-lipped, stating that he does not like to discuss external players and that the club will make an announcement when there is something concrete to share.
As the new season approaches, Arsenal fans eagerly await news of potential signings and departures, with Arteta and his team working hard behind the scenes to strengthen their squad. It may be a bumpy ride, but the manager urges the fans to remain patient and trust in the team's decisions. After all, they have shown great promise and potential in their pre-season matches, and Arteta has high hopes for their upcoming campaign.
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