Football | Arsenal 2 - 3 Villarreal

Gyökeres home debut overshadowed as Arsenal fall to Villarreal

Arsenal were beaten by Villarreal in their final home friendly before the new Premier League season.

Author | DJ

Stadium | Emirates Stadium

The Swedish striker, signed from Sporting Lisbon in a major summer deal, was given an hour to impress after his brief appearance against Tottenham in Hong Kong. But it was a former Arsenal player who stole the headlines on his return to north London, wearing the yellow of Villarreal.

Nicolas Pépé, once a £72 million signing and Arsenal's record transfer, put the visitors ahead from close range after Pape Gueye’s header bounced off the post. Villarreal soon made it two, as Gerard Moreno was left unmarked in the area. David Raya saved the initial shot, but Karl Etta Eyong reacted first to nod in the rebound.

Arsenal responded quickly through a set piece. Gabriel Martinelli's corner found Christian Nørgaard at the far post, the Denmark midfielder rising well to score his first goal since joining from Brentford.

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The home side pushed for an equaliser after the break. Gyökeres went closest with a low effort that was well saved at the near post by Luis Junior. But Villarreal extended their lead against the run of play when Arnaut Danjuma broke clear and calmly slotted past Kepa Arrizabalaga.

There was still time for teenager Max Dowman to impress again. The 17-year-old produced a clever backheel to win a penalty, which Martin Ødegaard converted to reduce the deficit.

Noni Madueke was introduced late on, but it was Dowman who continued to dictate play in midfield. Despite his influence, Arsenal were unable to avoid a second successive defeat in pre-season. Their campaign begins next weekend with a home match against Manchester United.

Which players stood out for the home side?

William Saliba

He was solid as ever and probably Arsenal’s best defender in the game. Throughout pre season, Arsenal’s defence hasn't looked great but the Frenchman has still performed well. Saliba will be an important player throughout the upcoming campaign.

Christian Norgaard

The former Brentford midfielder got on the scoresheet by heading home at the back post from a corner. He roke up the play well during a solid performance. This has the look of a very good signing by Arteta as his side look to compete in multiple competitions again. 

Max Dowman

Was only on the pitch for around half an hour bit another ridiculous (in a good way) performance. Throughout this cameo, he looked great and won his side a penalty.