3 Arsenal players who could excite during pre-season
By Adam Schultz
Arsenal will jet off for Germany as preparations ramp up ahead of the new Premier League season. Which players could excite during the pre-season to give Mikel Arteta something to think about?
The Gunners started their preseason campaign by sweeping League One outfit Ipswich Town aside as they slotted five past Kieran McKenna’s side. Eddie Nketiah grabbed himself a first-half hat-trick, while Sambi Lokonga and Folarin Balogun rounded off the scoring.
Pre-season is normally used to build fitness among the playing group, and it also gives the younger players in the squad a chance for vital first-team minutes.
3 Arsenal players that could excite during pre-season
With Arsenal’s famed Hale End academy producing some sensational products, which players could see ample game time over the next couple of weeks?
Marcelo Flores
Personally, one that I am extremely excited about. The 18-year-old oozes technical and creative excellence; Flores simply glides across the pitch, all the while having the ball under his complete control. He was touted last season as a surprise first-team choice, but given that Arsenal was knocked out of the FA Cup early and had no Europa League football, opportunities were seriously limited.
Flores possesses superb dribbling skills, and his ability to turn opponents around makes him a slippery customer. Another thing that Mikel Arteta is said to like is his versatility. Whether it be as a central midfielder, or out wide on either flank, Flores is equally adept at playing in each position.
He is a jack of all trades and a master of none at this early stage of his career, but once Flores gets the ball on his wand of a right foot, good things tend to happen.
Flores is one to keep an eye on this preseason, and there is no question he will be knocking on the door for first-team minutes for Arsenal’s cup competitions.
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