Arsenal Embarks on US Pre-Season Tour Amid Squad Shakeup

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Key Players Absent as Young Talent Steps Up

Arsenal has departed for their highly anticipated pre-season tour in the United States, leaving behind a number of first-team members. With fixtures lined up against Bournemouth, Manchester United, and Liverpool, the tour presents an opportunity for emerging talents to shine, as 11 established stars miss out on the initial squad due to post-tournament rest and injuries.

Post-Tournament Rest for Copa and Euro Stars

Following their strenuous efforts in Copa America and Euro 2024, players like Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz have been granted an extended break. They are set to join their teammates on July 25. Meanwhile, Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu are sidelined with injuries, focusing on their rehabilitation back in London.

Euro Finalists Skip Tour

The England contingent comprising Declan Rice, Aaron Ramsdale, Bukayo Saka, and David Raya, who reached the Euros final, will not be participating in the tour. Spanish goalkeeper David Raya and French defender William Saliba are also set to rejoin the squad post-tour after their national team’s semi-final run.

Seasoned Players and New Signings Make the Trip

Captain Martin Odegaard is among the experienced players heading to the US, alongside Ben White, Gabriel Jesus, and Jurrien Timber. Ben White has already caught the attention of supporters with his impressive gym workouts. Euro 2024 participants Leandro Trossard, Jorginho, Jakub Kiwior, and Oleksandr Zinchenko are also on board for the trip.

Young Prospects Fly Out with Senior Squad

Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, Fabio Vieira, and Reiss Nelson were spotted with the team before departure. Karl Hein leads the goalkeeping lineup, flanked by newcomers Tommy Setford and Lucas Nygaard, and youth prospect Alexei Rojas.

Pre-Season Fixtures Lined Up

Arsenal’s pre-season campaign kicks off with a match against Bournemouth at LA Galaxy’s Dignity Health Sports Park, followed by a clash with Manchester United at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The tour concludes with a game against Liverpool on August 1 in Philadelphia, before returning home for fixtures against Bayer Leverkusen and Lyon.

Transfer Market Buzz: Arsenal Eyes Wolves Keeper

In transfer news, Arsenal has reportedly placed a new offer for Wolves goalkeeper Dan Bentley, with negotiations suggesting a figure close to £300,000. While Wolves hold out for £1million, a middle ground seems likely. Further squad changes are anticipated, with Smith Rowe and Nketiah rumored to be on the move.