Arsenal’s Pre-Season Positives and Key Takeaways Ahead of 2025–26

Arsenal’s Pre-Season Wins & Tactics: Key Takeaways Ahead of 2025–26

With pre-season behind them, Arsenal head into the 2025–26 season with cautious optimism.

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Five warm-up matches offered intriguing glimpses of how Mikel Arteta plans to weave new signings into the fabric of an already talented squad, revealing several encouraging patterns ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League opener at Old Trafford.

Quicker Transitions

While Arsenal’s patient build-up play remains a hallmark, the team has shown a clear intent to move the ball forward quickly when the moment arises.

Goalkeeper David Raya and players like Riccardo Calafiori, Declan Rice, William Saliba, and Jakub Kiwior have executed pinpoint long passes, often finding Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka.

These early deliveries force opponents to retreat, opening pockets of space for midfielders and giving Saka more chances in high-stakes 1v1 scenarios, a tactic that proved effective in the 3-0 win over La Liga club Athletic Club.

High-Intensity Pressing

Arteta’s high press was on full display throughout pre-season. Arsenal frequently coordinated pressure in advanced areas, forcing turnovers and creating dangerous opportunities.

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Against Newcastle United in Singapore, a 5v4 advantage led to a quick interception and a threatening chance for Saka. Similarly, a well-timed press against Villarreal resulted in a penalty, underscoring how high-intensity pressing remains a central weapon in Arteta’s tactical arsenal.

Gyokeres Adds A New Dimension

Viktor Gyokeres has quickly made an impact despite starting only twice. The Swedish forward’s darting runs behind central defenders stretch opposition defences, creating pockets of space for Gabriel Martinelli, Noni Madueke, and Leandro Trossard.

His presence allows Arsenal to attempt more adventurous passes into open space, adding an exciting tactical option in attack. The flashes of his energy and movement hint at a forward who could unlock tight defences this season.

Crosses and Set-Pieces

Pre-season also revealed promising developments in attacking deliveries. Quick, one-touch crosses produced goals for Saka and Gyokeres, highlighting the impact of precise ball movement in the final third.

Set-piece coach Nicolas Jover introduced clever corner routines designed to disrupt defensive organisation, while Christian Norgaard showcased his aerial prowess with a far-post header against Villarreal. These refinements add exciting new layers to Arsenal’s threat from both open play and dead-ball situations.

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Midfield and Defensive Fluidity

Declan Rice has adopted a more traditional central role, forming a fluid double pivot with Martin Zubimendi. This structure allows Martin Ødegaard and Ethan Nwaneri to occupy central creative zones, linking dynamically with forwards.

On the right, the combination of Ben White and Saka has been particularly smooth, with overlapping runs and diagonal passes offering both tactical flexibility and healthy competition for the returning Jurrien Timber.

Looking Ahead

Despite a few pre-season hiccups, the squad appears well-prepared for the challenges ahead. All six summer signings have integrated seamlessly, and the team’s most commanding performance came against Athletic Club, signalling readiness for the Premier League curtain-raiser.

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The cohesion, tactical innovation, and flashes of brilliance displayed in pre-season give plenty of reason for Arsenal fans to feel genuinely optimistic about the 2025–26 campaign.