Saka alternative emerges in Arsenal friendly as Arteta faces transfer rethink

Arsenal completed their first pre-season match of the United States tour and came away from the game having learned a lot more about the squad. Mikel Arteta was restricted in the squad he had to choose from with many players still on their extended holidays.

A 1-1 draw on paper against Bournemouth might not appear too impressive but considering just two players that started the final day game against Everton started in California compared to the Cherries’ seven and it paints a very clear picture. Despite that Arsenal still dominated and it was a chance to see some of the youngsters get some minutes before Karl Hein produced another heroic penalty shootout performance.

Bukayo Saka competitor

There have been plenty of calls for Arsenal to sign a wide player that would provide competition and cover to Bukayo Saka. The reality is this is extremely difficult because finding a reliable option that can provide the inverted right-side left-footed profile means knowing that Saka will always be the predominant number one at right wing.

Step forward Fabio Vieira, who has found it difficult to find many minutes due to form and fitness. His volley to score the Gunners’ only goal was sublime and playing from the right he has certainly given some reason to consider a greater amount of depth in the position that we might have initially thought.

Reiss Nelson rethink

There are expected to be a number of exits this summer, even from those currently in the States with the team. Reiss Nelson is indeed one of those players who could but based on his display in the early hours of the morning, the winger was lively and creative, making the goal for Vieira.

Showing what he can do on that left foot he was among the top performers on the day. Leicester City are thought to be keen and reports claim they have even entered discussions over a move but could his summer performances, should they continue in this way, change the minds of those making the decisions?

Tough choices

Emile Smith Rowe sat out the game as he awaits further news on his future. A potential move to Fulham is on the cards as the clubs discuss a deal in excess of £30million.

Smith Rowe has been at the club since a very young age and showed great promise two years ago as he was the main left-wing starter for Arteta’s side. However, injuries and the progression of Gabriel Martinelli combined with Leandro Trossard’s arrival has made finding game time tough.

He has lacked a clear role in this Arsenal team and that has worked against him. He deserves minutes in the Premier League but it seems that they will not be with Arsenal.