Nicolas Jover watched on as Arsenal dominated from set-pieces in typical vein, with both William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes netting from close range.
Admittedly, Arsenal were helped by Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri on this occasion, who looked very suspect when Declan Rice was floating his corners into the box.
But otherwise, it was a strong performance from Mikel Arteta’s side, who will take a lot of confidence into their meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.
Zinchenko impressed for Arsenal, perhaps dispelling any talk that the defender should leave following Calafiori’s arrival.
Of course, it was the Italian who replaced Zinchenko to make his home debut in the 64th minute of the 2-0 win, initially beginning as Arteta’s left-back.
Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal touches hands with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Olympique Ly...
Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images
Impressive youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly was then introduced 14 minutes later, seeing Calafiori move into the left centre-back role.
Calafiori looked fast and composed, and it’s already obvious why Arteta was so keen to bring the Italian in.
William Saliba thinks there’s a lot to come from Arsenal signing Riccardo Calafiori
Saliba played just over 10 minutes alongside Calafiori before being substituted for Jakub Kiwior late on.
And when speaking via Arsenal’s website after the game, Saliba stated his excitement regarding Calafiori’s potential at the club – evidently a player he believes can improve things.
Saliba said: “Yeah, I’m so happy for him. I think it’s only the beginning, he’s a really good player, young as well.
“We’re so happy to have him with us and I hope he’ll have a really good season with us.”
Of course, it was interesting to catch a glimpse of Calafiori in both of the positions he could occupy on a regular basis for Arsenal this season.
In truth, the Italian looks much better suited to a role as a centre-back right now, where he may find it easier to adapt to the Premier League.
Calafiori looked bright and enthusiastic on the left, but perhaps would benefit from Zinchenko holding things down in the early weeks of the season.
In other news, Edu hinted at some exciting Arsenal transfer news, words which emerged just before yesterday’s 2-0 win.
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