Arsenal Face Villarreal with Madueke and Gyokeres in Line for Action | OneFootball

Arsenal vs Villarreal: Debut Anticipated as Arteta Assesses Injuries

Madueke Ready for First Appearance in Arsenal Colours

There is an undeniable thrill to watching a player take their first tentative steps in new surroundings — especially one who arrives with the weight of expectation. Arsenal’s £52 million summer signing, Noni Madueke, is poised for his first appearance in red and white tonight as Villarreal visit the Emirates Stadium for a high-profile pre-season friendly.

Having joined after representing Chelsea at the Club World Cup, Madueke missed Arsenal’s pre-season tour of Asia but has returned to training ahead of schedule. His commitment is clear; the winger has already integrated with Mikel Arteta’s squad in a bid to hit the ground running. “It was a short one but at least that one is off now and when they play against Villarreal now, I’m sure it will be a bit different,” said Arteta, referencing the club’s recent loss to Tottenham.

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Gyokeres and Madueke Offer Fresh Options in Attack

Another intriguing subplot is the potential home debut of Viktor Gyokeres, who made a brief appearance in the defeat to Spurs. Arteta, typically cautious with new arrivals, has confirmed that Gyokeres’ minutes will be managed carefully, especially since the striker missed Sporting’s pre-season before making the switch to Arsenal.

Tonight’s match provides an opportunity for both Madueke and Gyokeres to start building rhythm ahead of the new season, with Arsenal fans eager to see how the duo can complement established stars like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard.

Injury Concerns Mount Before Villarreal Clash

Arteta’s preparations for Villarreal are complicated by a growing injury list. Riccardo Calafiori, who impressed during the Asia tour, missed the Spurs clash with a knee issue. Leandro Trossard is also a doubt after pulling up with a suspected muscle injury. “He felt a little tweak, I think he tried to turn and he was pushed and he felt something muscular so we’ll have to assess him,” explained Arteta.

Gabriel and Jurrien Timber remain sidelined as they continue rehabilitation from earlier surgeries, and Gabriel Jesus is ruled out entirely with a knee problem.

Predicted Arsenal Lineup Against Villarreal

With several players unavailable, Arteta is expected to field a blend of first-team regulars and newcomers. The predicted XI (4-3-3) features Raya in goal, with a defence of White, Saliba, Kiwior, and Lewis-Skelly. Ødegaard, Zubimendi, and Rice are likely to marshal the midfield, while Saka, Havertz, and Martinelli spearhead the attack.

Kick-off is at 6pm BST today, Wednesday, 6 August 2025, at Emirates Stadium. The match is available via the official Arsenal website and app.