Arteta makes huge Arsenal promise after Emirates Cup win

Mikel Arteta says Arsenal now have the ‘tools’ to challenge on all fronts after lifting the Emirates Cup with a 3-0 win over Athletic Club.

The Gunners’ final pre-season outing saw summer signings Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi combine for the opener, Bukayo Saka add a second, and Kai Havertz score off the bench.

Arteta was pleased with both the performance and the options at his disposal.

‘In every position now, we have a different quality,’ he said. ‘A lot of players can play in various positions with versatility, bringing different kinds of threats to the team.’

He believes that depth will allow Arsenal to ‘change the puzzle’ at any moment and keep opponents guessing.

‘I’m very pleased with the performance, the cohesion, the fluidity, the dynamism, and the level of threat we provided,’ he said. ‘A lot of big individual performances and I’m happy with the result and the clean sheet.’

Gyokeres’ first goal in Arsenal colours came from a Zubimendi cross, and Arteta was quick to praise the Spaniard’s contribution.

‘The quality of the delivery from Zubi, absolutely top,’ he said. ‘He was incredible today. For Viktor to get that first goal is very important psychologically.’

Havertz made his mark too, racing clear late on to seal the victory.

‘Kai came in and scored an incredible goal,’ Arteta said. ‘I’m very happy with the team today.’

The manager also reflected on the club’s global pre-season tour, which drew sold-out crowds in every location.

‘Everywhere we’ve been, it’s been sold out,’ he said. ‘The energy and excitement from the fans, the support they are giving to the team and the new players, is a really positive thing to have.’

Arsenal dominated from the start at Emirates Stadium, with Saka lively and Gyokeres twice going close before heading in the opener.

Martinelli then set up Saka for the second goal within minutes.

In the second half, Gyokeres hit the post before making way for Havertz, who finished neatly from Saka’s pass on the break.

The sides took part in a penalty shootout after the final whistle, with Arsenal edging it 6-5.

The result capped a productive pre-season and a trophy lift in front of home fans.

Arteta confirmed focus now turns to the Premier League opener against Manchester United at Old Trafford next Sunday.

‘We will review the match, review pre-season and make the final tweaks,’ he said. ‘We’re very much ready to start the season.’

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