Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the USA came to a disappointing end in Philadelphia as the Gunners were beaten by Liverpool.
The results of these pre-season friendly matches aren’t on any great consequence, but Mikel Arteta will still have wanted his side to beat the Reds.
Arsenal were able to create chances, and dominate much of the game, but ultimately lacked cutting edge in the final third.
Arteta has admitted Arsenal’s profligacy is a problem, and the Spanish coach is clearly trying to add firepower to his squad.
Arsenal are pushing to sign Viktor Gyokeres, who ought to make the Gunners more potent in the final third.
Overall, though, the manager will have taken plenty of positives from his side’s showing against Liverpool, but will recognise that his team need to find a higher level.
Club captain Martin Odegaard recognises this need to improve, too.
Martin Odegaard backs Arsenal to hit form after Liverpool loss
The Norwegian playmaker believes that the Gunners are growing into form, and is relaxed about the situation, aware that the club still have a couple of friendlies left to play. Arsenal need to use those matches to really click into gear.
As quoted by the club’s official website, in the wake of the 2-1 defeat against Liverpool, Odegaard said: “I think it’s been a really great week-and-a-half. We’re getting fitter and fitter, getting that sharpness back. I think we’re getting ready, it’s not the moment to be at our top [level] but I think we’re going to time it well and be ready when it kicks off.”
In general, the Gunners will be pleased with the work they got done in America. After all, the main purpose of these pre-season matches is to afford players an opportunity to build up their fitness.
Arsenal need strong start in Premier League
If the Gunners are to achieve their aims for this season, then they will need to hit the ground running.
Arsenal have been backed to win the Premier League title this season by a number of pundits, but given the standard required to achieve that, Arteta’s side can’t afford a slow start.
The North London club have some tough early fixtures in the Premier League this season. They will get underway at the Emirates Stadium against Wolves, before having to negotiate trips to Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur, either side of hosting Brighton.
Arsenal need Odegaard to be right about the team’s ability to hit top form at the right time.
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