Confirmed Arsenal team to face Villarreal – Gyokeres starts | OneFootball

Arsenal will be aiming to return to winning ways against Villarreal following their narrow defeat to Tottenham, and this is the side that Mikel Arteta has selected.

Arsenal team v Villarreal

The Gunners had enjoyed a positive pre-season before the setback against Spurs, having recorded victories over AC Milan and Newcastle United. The fans will be eager to see a response against Villarreal, particularly with the competitive campaign fast approaching. The upcoming match presents an opportunity for Arsenal to reinforce their intent and continue sharpening their form ahead of the Premier League opener.

Historical Significance Adds Weight to Clash

There is additional context to this match, as Arsenal and Villarreal share a notable history in European competition. The two sides last met in the 2021 UEFA Europa League semi-final, a tie in which Villarreal emerged victorious over two legs. Arteta’s side has come a long way since that defeat and is now widely considered one of the top two teams in English football.

With significant improvements in squad depth, Arsenal enter this encounter with a clear sense of purpose. The desire to demonstrate their progress, especially against a side with whom they have unfinished business, is likely to drive performance levels. Arteta’s selection reflects the importance of maintaining rhythm and building confidence as the new campaign draws near.

Villarreal’s Struggles Present an Opportunity

While Arsenal have recorded two wins from three pre-season fixtures, Villarreal’s preparations have been less convincing. The Spanish side is yet to register a victory in their five friendly matches, having lost twice and drawn the rest. Despite their lack of form, they may approach this clash with added motivation, particularly given the calibre of their opposition.

Facing a high-profile side like Arsenal could bring out a more competitive edge in Villarreal, who will be eager to end their pre-season on a positive note. As such, Arsenal cannot afford to take the fixture lightly. The match is expected to be more challenging than Villarreal’s recent results may suggest, as the Spanish side is likely to raise their intensity and test Arteta’s men.

Ultimately, this encounter will serve as another valuable test for Arsenal as they prepare for what promises to be a demanding season ahead.