With no international tournament duty for players like Eddie Nketiah and Jurrien Timber, Arsenal’s preseason is off to an early start. Half a dozen players have joined manager Mikel Arteta in Marbella, kicking off their preseason three weeks ahead of schedule.
Ben White, Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson, Jurrien Timber, Fabio Vieira, and Emile Smith Rowe are among those present. This early start aims to boost their fitness and form as they prepare to challenge for the Premier League title.
Captain Martin Odegaard is expected to join them soon, adding to the group’s determination to improve on last season’s performance.
Timber and Vieira Seize Preseason Opportunity to Rebuild After Injury Setbacks
This mini-camp is crucial for Timber and Vieira. Both players faced challenging times with injuries last season, especially Timber, who had a serious knee injury right at the start. Now, they have the chance to get back in shape and prove themselves.
Arteta missed Timber’s ability to play in different defensive roles, and he is determined to secure a spot in the team. The left-back position, which was Arsenal’s weak point last season, is up for grabs, and Timber is keen to claim it.
Sporting director Edu will also head to Marbella to monitor potential new signings. With all these efforts, Arsenal hopes to improve its Premier League odds for the upcoming season.
Hale End Trio Begin Preparations Amid Transfer Speculations
Currently, the Hale End trio—Reiss Nelson, Emile Smith Rowe, and Eddie Nketiah—are beginning their preparations for the 2024-25 season. Despite their focus on fitness, there has been much talk about their possible departures from the club. Each player has been linked with a transfer in recent weeks, casting some doubt over their Arsenal futures.
As for the broader picture, most Premier League squads will start coming together again by mid-July, following a summer filled with Euros and Copa America football. Arsenal has several high-profile friendly matches lined up. They will face Manchester United at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium on July 28, and then take on Liverpool in Philadelphia three days later.
Arsenal will also host matches against Bayer Leverkusen and Lyon, giving the team ample opportunity to fine-tune their game before the season kicks off.
Smith Rowe Gets a Head Start on Preseason Fitness
Emile Smith Rowe has taken an extra step in his preparation by heading to Marbella a week earlier than his teammates. The 23-year-old midfielder had a difficult season last year, playing in just 19 matches in all competitions and finding it tough to secure a spot in Mikel Arteta’s first team. This early start is a clear indication of his commitment to reclaiming his form and fitness.
Meanwhile, transfer rumors are swirling around Reiss Nelson. Sources from CBS Sports suggest that Nelson is looking for a new opportunity away from Arsenal. Clubs like Crystal Palace, West Ham, and Brighton have shown long-term interest in the winger. This adds a layer of uncertainty to his future at the Emirates but also opens up potential pathways for more consistent playing time elsewhere.
The Takeaway
Arsenal’s early preseason camp in Marbella, led by manager Mikel Arteta, sets the stage for an ambitious campaign ahead. With key players like Eddie Nketiah and Jurrien Timber back in action, the team is focused on boosting fitness and form.
This camp is especially important for Timber and Vieira, who are eager to prove themselves after injury setbacks. Meanwhile, the Hale End trio is preparing for the new season amidst transfer speculations.
With the addition of friendly matches against top teams, Arsenal is well-prepared to fine-tune their game. Arteta’s early start aims to give Arsenal the edge needed to compete for the Premier League title.
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