Arsenal play secret friendly against League One side as Arteta tests strong starting XI

Arsenal triumphed over Leyton Orient in a behind-closed-doors friendly match on Saturday afternoon at the Sobha Realty training complex. Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Emile Smith Rowe ensured a 2-0 victory for Mikel Arteta’s squad.

The Gunners showcased a robust starting line-up, featuring Jurrien Timber, Ben White, Thomas Partey, Reiss Nelson, Fabio Vieira, and Eddie Nketiah. Their next match will be against Bournemouth in America as their pre-season tour commences.

Having spent two weeks with Arteta following the return of players not participating in international tournaments this summer, Arsenal capitalised on their training. Jesus scored the first goal before the half-hour mark.

Jesus’ goal was the result of a coordinated effort between Myles Lewis-Skelly, Reiss Nelson, and Nketiah on the left flank, with Nketiah providing the final pass for a tap-in. After a reportedly slow start to the game, Arsenal created several opportunities with Jesus making an impact around the box and Nketiah having a shot saved.

Smith Rowe netted the second goal shortly after half-time, converting from Jesus’ assist after controlling a long ball. The entire team was substituted not long after, with Orient also making their changes at half-time.

The young team on the pitch seemed to maintain their momentum, with Charles Sagoe Jr forcing a save from the Orient goalkeeper. Salah Oulad-M’hand was also denied following a deflected shot.

Three Arsenal players were not used during the game: Alexei Rojas-Fedorushchenko, Maldini Kacurri, and Ismail Oulad-M’hand.

Arsenal XI vs Leyton Orient: Hein (Nygaard 70), White (Rosiak 60), Timber (Rekik 46), Heaven (Monlouis 60), Lewis-Skelly (Nichols 60), Partey (Patino 46), Odegaard (Gower 60), Nelson (Nwaneri 60), Vieira (Smith-Rowe 46), Jesus (Salah Oulad-M’hand 60), Nketiah (Sagoe Jr 60).