3 standout players from Arsenal’s impressive pre-season

1. Gabriel Jesus

Both Arsenal and rival fans saw the glaring weakness that was the centre-forward position last season. Aubameyang departed midway through the season, while Lacazette functioned like an unathletic central midfielder who rarely entered the box. Nketiah, for all his good work down the stretch, was anonymous for the vast majority of the season (although that was certainly not his fault).

Arsenal played some exceptional football last season, with the wide and attacking midfield players proving devastating. Yet everyone knew if the right striker could be brought in, productivity in the final third could explode. And explode it has.

Gabriel Jesus has been astonishing throughout pre-season. His mobility and intelligent movement have terrorised defences. He drifts wide, drops deep and bursts forward. Crucially, he does this at the right time. The Brazilian has combined his off-the-ball excellence with brilliant finishing. Near-posts smashes, perfectly timed headers and delicate chips are just a few of the moves he’s pulled off during the recent friendly games.

His professionalism and winning mentality are nothing to be scoffed at either. He’s a relentless runner, both during games and in training. Jesus has forced others wearing red and white to raise their level as well.

The Arsenal attack is clicking and so much of that is down to the astute signing of Gabriel Jesus. Arsenal fans have to only wait a few days to see if the attack continues to click at Selhurst Park.

Arsenal have had an excellent pre-season. New players and the re-emergence of old faces alike have raised the level of a young but extremely talented squad. Mikel Arteta has transformed this squad and Arsenal fans have much to be excited about. Bring on Crystal Palace.