Arsenal Pre-Season Friendlies: Dowman Impresses, Attack Still Lacking

Arsenal pre-season friendlies have provided both excitement and concern for fans as the Gunners gear up for the 2025-26 campaign with renewed ambition. Mikel Arteta’s side, eager to end a five-year trophy drought, showed promise in their summer preparations but also revealed key areas needing attention before competitive action begins.

Mixed Results as Arsenal Build Momentum

Arsenal pre-season friendlies saw the squad travel across Asia and return to North London, playing five challenging matches against high-caliber opponents. The Gunners secured convincing victories over AC Milan and Newcastle United in Singapore, highlighting the team’s attacking potential and defensive discipline. However, a disappointing defeat to rivals Tottenham in Hong Kong – notably the first North London Derby held overseas – exposed some vulnerabilities and dampened early optimism.

Upon returning home, Arsenal faced Villarreal and Athletic Club at the Emirates Stadium. A surprising loss to Villarreal raised questions about the squad’s readiness, but a dominant demolition of Athletic Club restored confidence, especially with new signing Viktor Gyokeres finding the net for the first time in red and white.

Max Dowman: Arsenal’s Teenage Breakout Star

Perhaps the most significant takeaway from the Arsenal pre-season friendlies was the emergence of Max Dowman. The teenage midfielder consistently impressed with his composure, vision, and tactical understanding far beyond his years. Dowman’s performances suggest he could be a genuine part of Arteta’s plans as early as this season, providing youthful energy and unpredictability in midfield.

Arsenal fans have long awaited an academy graduate to make an immediate impact, and Dowman appears ready to seize his opportunity. His ability to dictate tempo and link play gives Arteta a new dimension, particularly in games where creativity is required to break down stubborn defenses.

Attacking Reinforcements Remain a Priority

While the Arsenal pre-season friendlies have showcased exciting talent and positive passages of play, one glaring issue persists: the need for an additional attacker. Despite the arrival of Viktor Gyokeres, the forward line lacks depth and consistent firepower. Injuries or poor form could leave Arteta short of options, a vulnerability that has cost Arsenal in previous title races.

Transfer rumors continue to swirl around potential signings, with the manager hinting at further business before the window closes. For Arsenal to realistically challenge for the Premier League title and make a mark in Europe, strengthening the attack remains essential.

Winners and Losers of Arsenal Pre-Season Friendlies

Beyond Dowman’s breakout, several players enhanced their reputations during the Arsenal pre-season friendlies. Gyokeres’s debut goal was a major positive, showing he can adapt quickly to his new surroundings. Defensively, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes continued to build their partnership, giving confidence to the backline.

On the opposite end, some fringe players struggled to impress. Questions remain about Emile Smith Rowe’s form after an injury-hit season, and doubts linger over the depth outside Arsenal’s first-choice XI. The loss to Villarreal, in particular, highlighted the need for stronger squad rotation if the Gunners are to compete on multiple fronts.

Arteta’s Tactical Evolution on Display

Arteta used the pre-season as an opportunity to experiment with formations and pressing tactics. The Arsenal pre-season friendlies saw the Gunners shift seamlessly between 4-3-3 and 3-4-3 setups, seeking greater versatility against different opposition styles. This tactical flexibility, combined with the integration of youth, bodes well for a long campaign ahead.

Are Arsenal Ready for the New Season?

The Arsenal pre-season friendlies have provided a valuable barometer ahead of a tricky opening run in the Premier League. While optimism is high, and the emergence of Max Dowman gives fans reason to be excited, the squad’s lack of depth in attack remains a genuine concern.

Arteta’s side has shown they can compete with the best – but to turn promise into silverware, further reinforcements and continued growth are required. For more news and updates on Arsenal’s journey, visit for more news.

Opinion: Dowman’s Emergence Brings Hope, But More Needed

Arsenal pre-season friendlies have sparked optimism, particularly with Max Dowman’s rapid rise. However, unless the club addresses its attacking depth, the dream of ending the title drought may remain out of reach. The next few weeks in the transfer market will be crucial for Arsenal’s ambitions.