Arsenal lost to French side Olympique Lyon on Sunday at the Emirates Cup. The Gunners took the first lead through Pierre Aubamenyang but 2 second-half goals from Moussa Dembele turned the tide in the visitor’s favor.
Unai Emery’s side dominated much of the game and should have killed the match in the first half. Below, we look at some of the key lessons that can be picked from the match.
The kids are alright
Unai Emery gave a chance to some of the young prospects at the club and they did not disappoint. Joe Willock never looked out of place in midfield alongside Granit Xhaka while Reiss Nelson was easily the most lively player on the pitch.
New signing Gabriel Martinelli also featured late on and was unlucky to see his goal ruled out. Arsenal does have a very bright future if the kids are anything to go by.
Joe Willock was very impressive again today. He’s looking more and more assured with every game. Physically he’s excellent; was all over the park. Tactically, he showed that he can play both as a #10 and an #8. Probably the closest we’ll come to an Aaron Ramsey replacement. pic.twitter.com/DyVdnJQkG4
— Lvcvzette (@RegistaCam) July 28, 2019
Reiss Nelson is rather special isn't he
— gunner-gal26 (@gunner_x49) July 28, 2019
https://twitter.com/AFCComps/status/1155548500446388226?s=20
Same Old Mustafi
It is not many times that you see Arsenal fans united against a common course but somehow, Shkodran Mustafi has miraculously brought the fanbase together. The only problem is the reason behind this unity is they all want to see the German defender out of the club.
Looking at his performance against Lyon (as a sub), it is easy to understand the fans’ frustrations with the player. He was at cause for the second goal as he was the one playing Dembele onside. What’s even worse is he had the audacity to claim an offside when replays showed that was not the case.
He was even booed by his own fans!
I am not one for booing players. Its counter productive generally. Mustafi don't help himself with this 🔙🔛🔝 trolling he puts out. The club just need to accept he is not suited to us or the league and move him on asap for everyone's good. It will only get worse, so end it now.
— Den (@DenAFC69_888) July 29, 2019
Mustafi was calling for offside because it was offside. https://t.co/cAZo4jwdts
— BAM-eyang 🇨🇾 (@ArsenalHomerton) July 29, 2019
Think it’s best for everyone that Mustafi just leaves, I don’t agree with booing him when he comes on but the guy is a mess in defence, his confidence is in bits and it won’t ever change at Arsenal
— MR DT © (@MrDtAFC) July 28, 2019
Next up for the Gunners is a trip to France to face Angers in a friendly match on Wednesday. Let’s hope we see less Mustafi