In the matches Arsenal played on the tour there was a visible change in the way they played.
Arteta is highly competitive and sees friendlies as tests.
The tempo of play so far seems to be higher, as does the intention to play the ball forward more quickly.
There are also signs of how the team is going to progress – Ethan Nwaneri played the first two matches in the centre, a sign that that is where Arsenal see his future after a breakthrough season on the right.
Against Newcastle, the direct style was on show, as well as an ability to deal with the physical challenge of Eddie Howe’s side.
Arsenal have again made a point of recruiting players who are physical. Gyokeres, Christian Norgaard and Cristhian Mosquera are all strong players and Martin Zubimendi’s stature has been noticed by those around the club.
They will play up to Gyokeres and make use of his imposing physical style, along with his ability to seemingly burst through centre-backs.
There was an emphasis on goal threat – particularly against Newcastle. Arsenal were breaking lines quicker, using runs in behind the defence and getting shots off.
This is all part of a plan to increase goal threats from every position and get the best out of Gyokeres’ key attributes.
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