Nine days before their Premier League campaign begins, Arsenal certainly made a statement against Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates, winning 4-1 in emphatic fashion.
Granit Xhaka returned to north London, as did a host of Arsenal’s internationals, the likes of Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, David Raya and William Saliba.
Interestingly, Kai Havertz began the game as Arsenal’s number eight, playing the Xhaka role in front of Mikel Arteta’s former player.
And in that respect, it felt like another coming-of-age game for the German, who once again proved that he still is an option for Arteta in midfield.
Gabriel Jesus led the line for Arsenal, and the Brazilian looks incredibly motivated right now.
Jesus returned in remarkable shape for Arsenal pre-season – dispelling any thought that the striker was free to leave.
The former Manchester City man should be crucial for Arteta once again this season, who is already enjoying the fruits of a squad with less injuries.
Unfortunately, Arsenal have lost Jurrien Timber to injury again, but the issue should only be brief, and the Dutchman could return against Lyon on Sunday.
Gabriel Jesus is ready to break his Arsenal goal-scoring record this season.
As mentioned, Jesus delivered a confidence-inspiring performance, scoring Arsenal’s third goal on the night.
To date, Jesus scored 11 goals in his first campaign at Arsenal, playing 33 games across all competitions in the 2022/23 season.
And last term, the Brazilian managed just eight goals in 36 appearances in all competitions.
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