Christian Norgaard started ahead of Martin Zubimendi in Arsenal’s pre-season clash against Tottenham in Hong Kong on Thursday.
The Dane was only granted 13 minutes in the Gunners’ game against Newcastle in Singapore on Sunday, but Mikel Arteta opted to give him a starting berth in the first-ever North London Derby abroad.
Deployed in a midfield three alongside Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice, Norgaard impressed as the lone number six.
The former Brentford man’s performance will certainly give Arteta food for thought moving forward, with the player certainly challenging the presumed first choice in Zubimendi.
Arsenal fans react to Christian Norgaard’s performance
Arsenal signed Norgaard for £15 million earlier this summer, to replace Jorginho and provide cover and competition for Zubimendi.
The signing divided the Gunners fanbase, but the supporters were united in their thoughts about the 31-year-old’s display against Tottenham on Thursday.
The defensive midfielder was combative and fierce in his tackling, making several important interventions which prevented Spurs from launching counter-attacks.
The Arsenal faithful took to social media to express their views on Norgaard’s showing.
One fan wrote on X: “Norgaard throwing in the tackles against these already, love it.”
Another added: “Norgaard, top game reading.”
One supporter wrote: “Christian Norgaard I’m very impressed.”
Meanwhile, another fan posited: “Norgaard is really decent very tidy player on and off the ball.”
Christian Norgaard screamed at the referee after Tottenham were given a free-kick
Aside from his astute defensive work and impressive range of passing, Norgaard has been praised for his leadership qualities in the past.
The former Fiorentina man captained Brentford for two years and is renowned for his dogged and determined personality.
This was on show in Hong Kong against Spurs, with the midfielder laying into the referee for a decision he made towards the end of the first half.
The official blew for a foul after Gabriel Martinelli tripped a Tottenham player and ran away with the ball.
The Brazilian would have had a golden opportunity to spring a counter-attack for the Gunners, and the foul certainly seemed soft.
Norgaard shouted at the referee to let him know what he thought of the decision, which is an indication of what Arsenal fans can expect from the Denmark international next season.
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