Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta commended his team’s resilience after an exhilarating 1-1 draw against Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley. The Gunners ultimately triumphed in the penalty shootout, with Fabio Vieira’s successful spot-kick clinching the coveted trophy.
During the match, Arsenal dominated the first 40 minutes, and despite new signing Kai Havertz’s attempts on target, City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega made crucial saves.
It was City’s Cole Palmer who broke the deadlock in the 77th minute with a stunning strike from just inside the box.
However, Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard equalised in the 101st minute with the help of a deflection off Manuel Akanji, leading to additional time being added for injury-related stoppages.
In the dramatic penalty shootout, Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard netted the first goal, while Kevin De Bruyne missed City’s opening penalty.
The shootout continued with successful shots from Trossard and Bernardo Silva before Bukayo Saka secured the decisive victory for Arsenal, with the scoreline at 3-1.
City’s Rodri missed his penalty, and Fabio Vieira’s successful spot-kick sealed the win for the Gunners.
After the match, Arteta expressed his delight with the team’s performance against the “best team in the world.”
“He acknowledged a mistake in allowing City’s goal but praised the impact of strategic changes and substitutions, particularly Trossard and Vieira’s contributions.
The Community Shield victory provides a positive start to Arsenal’s campaign, as they prepare to face Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
On the other hand, Manchester City remains a strong contender for multiple trophies this season, including the quadruple, European Super Cup, and Club World Cup. Their campaign begins with a match against Burnley on Friday.
Arsenal fans have hailed Thomas Partey as the new Michael Essien after the Ghanaian midfielder put in a dominant display in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City on Sunday.
Partey was instrumental in Arsenal’s 4-1 win on penalties after the game ended 1-1 in regulation time at Wembley. He bossed the midfield with his physicality, passing, and tackling, and also provided the assist for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s opening goal.
The 29-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for a club-record fee of £45 million, has been compared to Chelsea and Ghana legend Essien, who is widely regarded as one of the best African midfielders of all time.
Essien, who won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, one League Cup, and one Champions League with Chelsea, was known for his versatility, energy, and long-range goals. He also played for Lyon, Real Madrid, AC Milan, and other notable clubs in his illustrious career.
Some Arsenal fans took to social media to claim that Partey is even better than Essien, citing his football intelligence and technical ability. One fan tweeted: “Thomas Partey’s football intelligence put him ahead of Micheal Essien.”
However, some Chelsea fans and a section of Ghanaians disagreed with the comparison, arguing that Essien achieved more in his career and was a more complete player. One fan wrote: “Essien was a beast in his prime. Partey is good but not on his level.”
The debate has generated a lot of interest among football lovers, especially those from Ghana, where both players are national heroes. Partey has represented Ghana at three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and two World Cups, while Essien has played in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and one World Cup.
Both players have also won individual awards, such as the BBC African Footballer of the Year for Essien in 2006 and the Ghana Player of the Year for Partey in 2018 and 2019.
Essien had a far better career. He did what he knew how to do so well. But make we take ball put ground paa de33 Partey dey ball. I feel there's something hindering him. He just is too relaxed and doesn't feel the need to explode. Essien on the contrary was a beast that will kill https://t.co/9bJlTLH2EP
Partey is yet to play the football Essien played at Lyon, some of these Twitter influencers shouldn't bore us with bollocks in the name of opinion Partey level no even catch Bernard Kumordzi sef😤 pic.twitter.com/JySReNUGSG
Partey isn’t even close to Rodri how much more Michael Essien Lol Charley let’s put this country man support aside and let’s talk about real football!!! https://t.co/4TaknmknDp
This is what i get from those who started watching football when doing anything for twitter engagements became a thing.
You’re entitled to your opinion but Read the room Obaa Hemma. No one is forcing you to be an influencer at everything. At least you spelt “Essien” well this… https://t.co/XyoLzEzvo5
Partey is yet to play the football Essien played at Lyon, some of these Twitter influencers shouldn't bore us with bollocks in the name of opinion Partey level no even catch Bernard Kumordzi sef😤 pic.twitter.com/JySReNUGSG
Brighton appears to be on the verge of outpacing Arsenal and Chelsea in securing the signing of Ajax winger Mohammed Kudus.
The 23-year-old Ghanaian talent has swiftly garnered recognition as one of global football’s most promising attacking prospects, impressing both at Ajax and on the international stage.
Reportedly turning down a contract extension offer from his current club in April, Arsenal and Chelsea have both been vying to entice Kudus to London.
Yet, according to David Ornstein from The Athletic, it’s Brighton that has now taken the lead, having agreed upon a £34.5 million transfer fee to bring him to the Amex Stadium.
Discussions between the player and the club are currently underway, aiming to finalize what could be a standout addition to Roberto De Zerbi’s squad, which is set to compete in the Europa League.
Kudus, who is also versatile enough to play as an attacking midfielder or a central striker, impressively netted 18 goals across 42 matches for Ajax in the previous season, including four goals in six Champions League appearances.
Kudus also received praise for his performances at the Qatar World Cup, notably scoring two goals in Ghana’s thrilling 3-2 victory over South Korea.
His current manager, Maurice Steijn, recently shared his perspective on Kudus’ future, advising the young talent to remain with the team.
Steijn said: “I feel that when Kudus decides to stay for one more year, the real top clubs will then come for him.
“If we win the league and he scores 20 goals, clubs will pay double for him. This is what we are trying to tell him now.”
However, the 49-year-old’s plea appears to have fallen on deaf ears.
Expressing his commitment to Arsenal, Edward Nketiah emphasized thatManager Mikel Arteta has faith in his capabilities and understands that he can deliver when given the opportunity.
Nketiah is determined to step up and address the scoring gap arising from Gabriel Jesus’ knee injury.
Jesus is expected to be sidelined for a number of weeks due to a minor knee surgery, a similar issue that necessitated his surgery in December last year, keeping him off the field for more than three months.
During Jesus’ previous absence, Nketiah emerged as a prominent figure, netting six goals in Arsenal’s initial six games after the World Cup in Qatar. Nonetheless, he hasn’t scored since January 2022, spanning across 14 matches.
In the recent preseason clash against Monaco in the Emirates Cup, Nketiah found the net, contributing to Arsenal’s 5-4 victory in the penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw. The confirmation of Jesus’ latest injury setback followed this match.
“I don’t think I’m here to fill in for anyone,” Nketiah said. “I’m here to play and contribute to the team.
“Obviously, I believe in my abilities and I know I can contribute. The manager has got a tough decision and whenever he calls me, he knows I can deliver and I can help the team, so it’s just about us all collectively playing our part to achieve our goals.”
Reflecting on his run on the team during Jesus’ absence last season, Nketiah continued: “I just really enjoyed it and was able to improve myself, test myself, I played some really big games and I was able to help and contribute.
“So that’s what it is about, obviously playing at the highest level, competing for trophies and that’s what I want to do. That’s what I want to contribute.
“I pride myself on always being ready and whatever role the manager needs me to fill I will always make sure I do my the best and to the best of my ability so I can help the team — that’s what it’s all about.”
Arteta has the option to deploy Nketiah in a central role, although he also possesses the alternative of United States international Folarin Balogun. Additionally, winger Gabriel Martinelli and the newly acquired Kai Havertz could be utilized as forwards if the situation demands.
Nketiah, however, has expressed his enthusiasm for embracing the responsibility of spearheading Arsenal’s efforts in a season where elevated expectations loom.
These anticipations arise following the team’s second-place finish last season and a substantial investment of over £200 million in new signings during the summer.
“Yeah, of course,” Nketiah said. “It’s what we play football for. We train hard every day to get the opportunity to play at the weekend. So not just myself, there’s many players that can obviously play in that position.
“So we’re all ready, we are all good players, we’re all able to contribute at different points in the season, everyone’s going to have different roles. It’s just about being ready and contribute and hopefully I can do that throughout the season.”
Auston Trusty is convinced that he has found the perfect opportunity as he completes his permanent transfer from Arsenal to Sheffield United.
The USMNT defender has committed to a four-year contract with the Blades, having moved from the Gunners for an undisclosed fee.
He had previously spent the last season on loan at Birmingham City, where he was a consistent presence with 44 starts.
Trusty’s journey continues with a transition to Sheffield United, who have been promoted to the Premier League. He has signed a contract that ensures his stay at the club until 2027.
“I am more than excited. The opportunity to be here at this historic club, and an opportunity to play in the Premier League and show my ability, it is everything I could have ever dreamed of growing up as a kid.
In Pennsylvania, this was a dream – almost an impossible dream but I believed in myself and the opportunity has come around, it is everything that I dreamed for,” Trust told the club’s official website.
“It is crazy how quick things happen in football. I have just come back from a US tour with Arsenal and a couple of days later I am sitting here doing this interview. Things did happen very quick, but that’s how football works. I was really looking for an opportunity so as soon as it came about, things and details were ironed out. I am here, I wasn’t wasting any time.
Everything is coming to fruition for me. I am in the right place at the right time and in the right mindset. Everything has come together how I dreamed it,” he added.
Trusty might have the opportunity to showcase his skills in a Sheffield United jersey for the first time this Saturday, as they face VFB Stuttgart in a friendly match. Subsequently, the Blades kick off their Premier League journeyagainst Crystal Palace on August 12.
Arsenal’s midfielder Thomas Partey has offered his support to the Game4Ukraine campaign, an initiative started by his teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko.
This charitable effort aims to raise funds for the reconstruction of the Mykhailo-Kotsiubynsky School in Chernihiv Oblast.
The campaign will reach its pinnacle with a charity match scheduled to take place at Stamford Bridge in London on Saturday, August 5.
Partey, along with his teammate Bukayo Saka, expressed their solidarity with the cause through a heartfelt video.
The Ghanaian footballer has joined a notable roster of former football stars and sports figures who will be taking part in this charitable match.
The Game4Ukraine charity game is anticipated to be a star-studded occasion, featuring two teams led by Ukrainian football legend Andriy Shevchenko and Oleksandr Zinchenko, the Ukrainian international and Arsenal star.
Partey was in the starting lineup for Arsenal during their victory in the Emirates Cup againstFrench Ligue 1 side AS Monaco at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
Among the distinguished list of former footballers and sports personalities set to grace the charity game are Michael Essien, Luca Toni, Ricardo Carvalho, Jermain Defoe, Samuel Eto’o, and Claudio Makelele, among others.
The event will also see the participation of football icons like Gianfranco Zola, William Gallas, Danny Drinkwater, Joe Cole, Christian Panucci, Julio Cesar, and James Arthur, among others.
Both parties have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms, and negotiations are underway to determine a suitable transfer fee, as per reliable source Fabrizio Romano.
According to Romano, it is evident that Raya is enthusiastic about a move to Arsenal, and discussions between the London clubs are anticipated to gain momentum.
Nevertheless, Brentford has set a valuation of at least £40 million for the player.
The Gunners are reportedly seeking to bolster their goalkeeping options to provide competition for their starting goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s backup keeper, Matt Turner, is said to be engaged in talks with Nottingham Forest over a potential move.
Raya’s departure from Brentford has been widely speculated upon this summer. The 27-year-old declined multiple contract offers from the club, hinting at an imminent departure from his current position with the west London side.
Notably, Brentford has already secured the services of Mark Flekken from SC Freiburg for their goalkeeping department, indicating their readiness to potentially part ways with Raya.
Although Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich have all been associated with interest in the Spanish goalkeeper, the valuation set by Brentford has led these clubs to abandon their pursuit.
Head coach of the Black Stars, Chris Hughton, has made it clear that a potential move by Thomas Partey to the Saudi Arabia Pro League will not affect the player’s chances of being called up to the national team.
There have been speculations about Partey’s possible move to Saudi Arabia, although discussions about the transfer have recently quietened down.
According to Hughton, his primary criteria for selecting players for the Black Stars is based on their regular playing time, with the league they are competing in having minimal influence on his decision-making process.
“Thomas is an experienced player, he had a wonderful season at Arsenal. Firstly, is about playing. Players who are playing regularly so they can keep their level of fitness.
:And of course, is about the league that they are playing in and if you look at the Blck Stars they would be scattered around.
“Some play in the best league, and some also play in leagues that is not on the level but it’s about playing and playing regularly,” he told TalkSports.
At the moment, Thomas Partey is likely to continue at Arsenal despite the signing of Declan Rice who the Gunners deem as replacement for the Ghanaian.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, in a previous interview, confirmed that Partey is ‘super important’ to the team.
“I expect Thomas Partey to stay here. Every time I spoke to him and had a conversation with him he’s ready to stay with us. For me, there’s nothing there’s at all.”
The Emirates Stadium now boasts a bronze statue commemorating former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger lifting the Premier League trophy.
Wenger, who guided the Gunners from October 1996 to May 2018, achieved three top-flight titles and a remarkable seven FA Cup victories during his tenure.
Overseeing 1,235 matches, he played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s historic unbeaten run during their 2004 league triumph.
Pioneer. Visionary. Invincible.
We have today unveiled a statue of Arsène Wenger outside Emirates Stadium to celebrate his incredible impact at the club ❤️
Under Wenger’s management, Arsenal enjoyed an impressive streak of 20 consecutive seasons in the Champions League, even reaching the final in 2006, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to Barcelona.
On Friday morning, a magnificent 3.5-metre statue of the 73-year-old, skillfully crafted by the acclaimed sculptor Jim Guy, was unveiled outside the North Bank Stand.
Arsenal’s executive vice-chairman, Tim Lewis, expressed their delight in acknowledging and celebrating Arsene Wenger’s exceptional leadership and remarkable career at Arsenal Football Club.
“Arsene’s contribution to, and achievements with, the club mark him out as the club’s greatest manager.
“He treated the club and its supporters to many trophies and fantastic memories and brought a revolution in the running of the club, an unbeaten season and the move to Emirates Stadium.
“It is fitting, therefore, that as a mark of the club’s enduring respect and gratitude a magnificent statue of Arsene now stands outsideEmirates Stadium.”
Wenger is set to be the guest of honour for the Emirates Cup match against Monaco on Wednesday, and he is also scheduled to visit his statue in the upcoming days.
The newly unveiled statue of Arsene Wenger now stands alongside five others, honoring the legendary figures of Tony Adams, Dennis Bergkamp, Herbert Chapman, Ken Friar, and Thierry Henry, all adorning the podium around the Emirates Stadium.
Ian Wright, an Arsenal legend, has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to settle the salary arrears of players in the senior national women’s team following their victory over Australia.
After the Super Falcons secured an impressive 3-2 win over the tournament co-host, Wright took to Twitter to write, “Pay them!!!!!! @thenff.”
According to a report by Daily Mail, the Super Falcons have not yet received FIFA’s £15,760 (AUS$30,000) payment, which is meant to be disbursed to the associations for distribution to players participating in the group stages of the tournament.
Additionally, the players are owed other bonuses from their qualification for the tournament.
Before their opening game against Canada, the Super Falcons threatened to boycott the match due to the outstanding issues.
However, head coach Randy Waldrum intervened, and the team decided to honor the game, which ended in a goalless draw.
Prior to the match, Waldrum expressed his frustration at the lack of support from the NFF during the team’s preparations, including the NFF canceling the team’s camping.
“I know we are not prepared the way we need to be … I’ve been very frustrated with the federation and the lack of support.
“We were supposed to have a camp for 10 to 12 days in Nigeria before going to Australia for another 10 to 15 days, but the federation cancelled the home camp.
“We have less days than a College pre-season to prepare for the World Cup, and it blows my mind because we’ve known about this since last year,” Waldrum was quoted as saying on the Sounding Off on Soccer podcast.
The NFF through their Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire responded to Waldrum’s claims, explaining what triggered the federation’s action to neglect the team.
“Only home-based professionals (whom he already gave very little consideration in his provisional list),” he said as quoted by DailyPost Nigeria.
“Like two weeks ago, he released his final list of 23, meaning there was absolutely no need for any camping for home-based again except to simply waste resources.”
“He knows he will not have Ajibade & Ayinde (2 key players) for the opening match against Canada, yet he left out Okobi & Otu from the squad. The NFF felt it would make more sense for the 23 to go straight to Australia & camp for 15/16 days acclimatising to the weather & conditions.”
Meanwhile, the Super Falcons are a step away from progressing to the knockout phase as they need just a draw against theRepublic of Ireland in their final group game.
Following his exceptional performance against Barcelona on July 27, 2023, some Arsenal fans have changed their stance and no longer call for the club to let go of Thomas Partey.
Partey’s sensational display in the pre-season friendly, where Arsenal emerged victorious with a 5-3 scoreline at the SoFi Stadium in the USA, left a significant impact on the fans.
Earlier, the Ghanaian midfielder was on Arsenal’s outgoing list after the club signed Declan Rice from West Ham United.
However, Partey’s recent performances have sparked a massive u-turn in the narrative, with fans now considering him their most crucial player.
The pre-season games, particularly the match against Barcelona, have convinced supporters that Partey should remain at the club. Those who previously backed the player to stay now feel vindicated in their support.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has also expressed the importance of Partey to the team in a previous interview, confirming the player’s significant role in the squad.
“I expect Thomas Partey to stay here. Every time I spoke to him and had a conversation with him he’s ready to stay with us. For me, there’s nothing there’s at all.”
Below are some reactions to Thomas Partey’s performance against Barcelona
— вkσmík (@bkomun) July 27, 2023 ???????? Yet another solid performance from Thomas Partey, he always seems to be in the right position to receive the ball. He was a menace in intercepting play and started the second goal with an excellent through ball from a quick free-kick. Majestic baller ⚪️???? pic.twitter.com/dyCHgPXcCM
— Gooner Chris (@ArsenalN7) July 27, 2023 Thomas Partey is the most Important Arsenal player pic.twitter.com/Mj0rkRQZdO
— Jon ???? (@JonMurigi) July 27, 2023 Thomas Partey once again proved to Arsenal why they need him in the midfield more than Declan Rice… proper baller pic.twitter.com/kvaw6IfNNv
— Highest Majesty (@kwaku_majesty_) July 27, 2023 Thomas Partey once again proved to Arsenal why they need him in the midfield more than Declan Rice… proper baller pic.twitter.com/kvaw6IfNNv
— Highest Majesty (@kwaku_majesty_) July 27, 2023 They wanted to sell Thomas Partey just because of this uncle Sam rice bag
— Essel (@Esselguy) July 22, 2023 While we are here please don’t sell Thomas Partey.
— Arsenal ANOOP (@ArsenalAnoop) July 27, 2023 PLEASE JUST DON’T SELL THOMAS PARTEY ????????????????????
— Arteta’s First Dawta❤️ (@Teafeh) July 27, 2023 ????️: I really don’t know the type of manager Mikel Arteta is” lost faith in Thomas Partey allowing the club to sell him for Declan Rice ????
????: Partey impact help Arsenal closer to win the Premier League last season. He makes all the Arsenal midfield function✍???? https://t.co/9nD07peVnt
— E.P.L????️???????? (@ishmael_idriss) July 27, 2023 Thomas Partey is that guy!
Former Arsenal and Manchester City defender, Kolo Toure, faced accusations of cheating on his then-fiancée, Awo, with a UK-based Zimbabwean model named Kessel Kasuisyo.
In a 2012 interview with Mirror, Kessel claimed that she had a two-year fling with the Ivorian footballer without knowing his real identity. According to Kessel, during their affair, Toure introduced himself as ‘Francios’ and portrayed himself as a Ghanaian car salesman operating in Africa.
Throughout the duration of their relationship, which lasted from September 2010 to December 2012, Toure allegedly concealed his true identity. He avoided taking pictures with Kessel and used his Islamic heritage as a pretext to prevent her from meeting his parents.
Kessel only discovered Toure’s true identity when a friend suggested that she search for the player’s information online after seeing his picture. To her surprise, she found out that Toure was already married to Awo.
“I am devastated. On some of the wedding pictures he is crying but a few weeks before he was in my bed.
“Two or three weeks after the wedding he was at mine. Around the time he got married, he called and said he was back in Africa and had just sold two cars.
“I believed everything he said, I am hurt and confused by it all. Maybe he wanted me to be a second wife. I just don’t know. Everything about his strange behaviour now all makes sense.”
“Two or three weeks after the wedding he was at mine. Around the time he got married, he called and said he was back in Africa and had just sold two cars.
“I believed everything he said, I am hurt and confused by it all. Maybe he wanted me to be a second wife. I just don’t know. Everything about his strange behaviour now all makes sense.”
Kessel told Mirror that they met at a nightclub in Manchester in September 2010 and they began talking before they exchanged numbers.
“He started chatting me up and we swapped numbers,” she said.
“Then he gave me a lift home. The next day he called me and we met at a hotel. I told him he looked familiar and he just said maybe he looks like somebody. He said he sold cars in Africa and did some charity work.”
“He said he came from Ghana and was a student too. He said his father was a minister. I am not a fan of football. I thought maybe I had seen him on telly with his father,” he added.
She claimed that during that time, Toure sent him expensive gifts like lingerie and even a £1,000 ring as a sign of his devotion to her.
Toure would vanish and then emerge nine months later, she said, adding that he always had a cap and sunglasses hiding his face when he visited her. She went on to describe their on-and-off connection.
“He asked if I wanted to meet up and I told him I had my own flat now. He came around in a big car. He was wearing a cap and big sunglasses.
“I told him it was my birthday and he asked me if I would wear some of the stuff he bought me so I got dressed up and we ended up in the bedroom.
“The next time I saw him he bought me a birthday present. He got me a gold watch and some 18-carat diamond earrings.
Kessel said Toure used to call her through a private number with the excuse that he does not want her to waste her money in reaching him.
“He used to call me constantly but from a private number so I couldn’t call back. I was suspicious, but he said he didn’t want me to waste my money calling.
“He once gave me £500 to send to my mother in Zimbabwe. Another time he gave me £200 for food because my fridge was empty. I started to question him about exactly what he did and he would say just selling cars. Things were on and off.”
Kolo Toure never reacted to the allegation that popped up after his marriage in 2012.
They tied the knot after nine years of dating and currently have two children, a daughter, and a son.
Declan Rice is setting his sights on achieving both Premier League and Champions League success at Arsenal, and he remains unfazed by his hefty £105 million price tag.
The talented English midfielder made the switch from West Ham to Arsenal earlier this month, setting a new record for the highest payment made for a British player in the Premier League.
Currently in the United States with his new teammates for preseason preparations, Rice is eager to help Arsenal improve on their second-place finish from last season.
Additionally, he is excited to see the Gunners return to top-level European competition for the first time since 2017.
Having experienced the joy of lifting the Europa Conference League trophy in his final game as West Ham’s captain, Rice’s hunger for success is evident as he looks forward to new challenges and opportunities with Arsenal.
“Last year was so close, I feel like we’re better off now this year, learning from that experience. I think that’s definitely a target and of course you’re in the Champions League, you go into the Champions League to win, you don’t go into (it) just to take part.
“There’s always a narrative around Arsenal that they’re not going to win the Premier League or they haven’t been good enough.
“But I didn’t see it in that way at all. I see it in a way that he (Arteta) has improved the squad every year. The players have improved individually. Everyone’s gone up another level and when I spoke to Mikel about the way he wanted me to play, where he sees me playing and the vision hehas for Arsenal.
“For me it is really exciting now to be a part of this project that Arsenal can get back to the big time and win some trophies.”
Rice’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium has eclipsed Arsenal’s previous transfer record – the signing of Nicolas Pepe from Lille for £72m – and will see West Ham receive a guaranteed £100m, with a potential £5m in add-ons.
The 24-year-old believes it is unfair he will carry increased expectations because of his price tag but insists he will not be weighed down by it.
“I think it’s time now. You know Arsenal under Mikel have won Community Shields, FA Cups, but I think now, this is a massive club, it’s constant pressure of delivering titles and it’s been such a long time now since Arsenal won the Premier League,” Rice told Sky Sports News.
“I just try to take everything in my stride. I can’t control what I’ve been bought for, that’s obviously been determined on how well I’ve played consistently over the last couple years,” he added.
“West Ham have obviously set that price, I tried to take it all of my stride, I’ve not really thought about the price tag once. I’ve been brought to Arsenal for a reason and that is to perform, to play football. To try and add to the squad, to try and win trophies.
“I’m not going to get involved in price tags. Of course people have always got opinions, you can’t please everybody.
‘Someone’s always got something to say, but what’s important is that the manager, you know you’ve got his support, you’ve got family support, people that are close to you, that’s all that matters.
“I won’t try to think about that too much and to be honest with you, I haven’t. It’s football. A lot of players have been bought for £80, £90, £100million. It’s our profession. It’s just down to us to perform. So over the six years (of his contract), hopefully I can repay that price tag.”
English player with Ghanaian heritage, Kobbie Mainoo, earned high praise from Manchester United’s coach, Erik ten Hag, for his outstanding performance during a pre-season match against Arsenal.
The young talent shone in the number six role, displaying remarkable movement and composure in defensive midfield.
Notably, he impressively won all of his ground duels and completed 23 out of 24 passes, even contributing an assist in the team’s convincing 2-0 victory over Arsenal.
Erik ten Hag was effusive in his compliments for Mainoo’s performance, expressing his intention to provide the promising youngster with more opportunities to showcase his skills on the big stage.
“It’s fantastic. Manchester United are famous for always bringing young players through and he can be one, but we have to see. We have confidence, he’s playing with confidence and I really liked his performance.”
“He showed it, then in the spring he got injured, so we’re really happy there are more youngsters with us now and they’re all doing very good, but I don’t want to raise expectations too high.”
“We have to see, the Premier League is tough, but definitely, you can see, we have some really good young players who can play a role in our squad. But the bar is high.”
Head coach of Ajax, Maurice Steijn, is doing all in his power to encourage Mohammed Kudus to stay with the team for an additional year in an effort to retain the talent of their valuable midfielder.
Kudus is receiving a lot of attention and interest from several clubs, and Steijn’s will to keep the excellent player underscores the significant part the Ghanaian star plays in the Dutch football superpower.
“I feel that when Kudus decides to stay for one more year, the real top clubs will then come for him,” he said.
“If we win the league and he scores 20 goals, clubs will pay double for him. This is what we are trying to tell him now,”
On July 16, 2020, Mohammed Kudus joined de Godenzonen. The 22-year-old midfielder made 30 appearances, contributed to 11 goals and three assists last season.
The rumors in England on Saturday claim that Chelsea has contacted Ajax to express interest in Mohammed Kudus. The midfielder has several suitors interested in his services, including Brighton, Newcastle United, and Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is confident that the acquisition of Declan Rice from West Ham should not cast doubt on Thomas Partey’s future at the club. According to Arteta, both players possess the necessary qualities required for success at Arsenal.
After engaging in extensive discussions with their London rivals, Arsenal successfully secured the services of the England international, breaking their club-record fee. This signing comes in addition to Jorginho, who joined from Chelsea in the previous January transfer window.
There were speculations about Partey’s potential departure, as he found himself lower in the manager’s choices during the latter part of the previous season. With Rice’s arrival, it was thought that there might be increased competition for the 30-year-old midfielder.
However, Arteta has clarified that the club’s plan is to enhance the team ahead of the upcoming season, considering the numerous matches they will be competing in, including their return to the UEFA Champions League after many years. The focus remains on strengthening the squad and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead.
“They can play together. That was in my plans. If you want to improve the squad and have more quality you need players that can improve the squad and players in the same position that can fight for the same places. It’s something that we haven’t had in the last few years. We wanted to improve that. That’s why we bought Declan as well,” he said to the media ahead of their pre-season clash with Manchester United on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Partey has reportedly received a number of offers from Italian and Turkish clubs as well as Saudi clubs who are still spending significantly to elevate the standard of the league.
Wayne Rooney has high expectations for Declan Rice, as he believes the England international must step up as a “leader” following his record-breaking transfer fee of £105m ($137m) from West Ham to Arsenal.
Rice showcased his talent in Arsenal’s 5-0 victory against the MLS All-Stars during their first friendly match in the United States.
Rooney, who was coaching the DC United team, was impressed by Rice’s performance and expressed his belief that the midfielder will become a “huge player” for Arsenal at the Emirates.
“I think could be the one who could… well, he has to be the leader now, really, I think of that Arsenal team,” he told the Press Association.
“I saw Frank Lampard saying he felt Declan could be the Chelsea captain for the next 10 years if he went there.
“I think he can do that [for Arsenal] and he seems to have that character and I believe he will be a huge player for Arsenal,” he added.
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has also put his weight behind Rice and insisted that Arsenal have the potential to win the 2023-24 Premier League after landing the midfielder.
The Gunners have revamped their squad and have also made major signings such as Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber as well as the 24-year-old.
Kai Havertz has once again found himself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons, this time due to his performance in the MLS skills challenge during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in the United States.
The German midfielder previously spent three years at Chelsea, but his time at Stamford Bridge was marked by inconsistent performances and a struggle to make a consistent impact.
This led to questions from fans regarding his role and fit within the team, despite Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta suggesting that Havertz would feature in midfield.
Havertz made his debut for Arsenal in a 1-1 draw against Nuremberg during the team’s first pre-season game.
However, even though he only played for one half, his underwhelming performance did not go unnoticed.
Havertz’s performance worries Gunners
Arsenal named a team of 10 for the MLS All-stars skills challenge at the Audi Field, including two goalkeepers, and they participated in a series of challenges, including cross and volley and touchdown challenges.
As seen in a video on Twitter by Men in Blazers, Havertz failed to score in the cross and volley challenge, becoming the first player to do so in the competition’s history.
The 24-year-old is getting trolled on social media,particularly by Chelsea fans, while for his new fans, it reiterates their initial thoughts that he was a needless signing.
He may have been getting the heat for his performance in that challenge, but Marca reports that he scored a competition-high of 86 points in the touchdown challenge to give Arsenal the victory.
Arteta asks for patience
Sports Brief reported that Arteta asked for patience over Havertz as he looks forward to studying the player more and finding a solution that suits him and the team.
This came after fans voiced their displeasure at the player’s performance in their first preseason game, where he was deployed as a left-sided number 8 but struggled to make an impact.
Mikel Arteta expressed hisstrong support for USMNT’s Matt Turner, highlighting that the goalkeeper “is on a great trajectory”.
Turner’s outstanding performance, particularly in saving two penalties against Canada in the Gold Cup, showcased his exceptional skills.
Throughout his career, Turner has demonstrated his penalty-saving prowess, having saved 11 out of 25 spot-kicks he faced, spanning from the USL Championship to the World Cup.
It is evident that he is the top choice for the goalkeeper position in the United States national team.
However, at Arsenal, Aaron Ramsdale remains the established starter, holding the undisputed position as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
But Mikel Arteta believes that Turner could provide stiff competition to the English keeper as he has been on a “great trajectory”.
“First of all, the same as last year which is a great contribution to the squad and a great contribution to the goalkeeping unit as well because he’s so competitive and keeps everyone at their best level every single day.
Then when he played he’s been great with us and with the national team he’s been superb, so I think he’s on a great trajectory.
“Obviously he needed some holiday because it’s been a long, long year for him, I don’t know how many competitions he’s played in, but it was so many and so he needed a break.
“When it’s after his break he will be back with us,” he told reporters after the 5-0 friendly win over the MLS All-Stars on Wednesday.
Arsenal will be competing for silverware on multiple fronts in the 2023-24 season and Turner will hope to feature at least in the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup on a regular basis if not in the Premier League and the Champions League.
He has previously leap-frogged Zack Steffen to become USMNT’s World Cup goalkeeper in Qatar 2022 and Ramsdale must be on his toes, lest he loses his No. 1 spot.
While Turner enjoys his vacation, Arsenal will be back in action in a pre-season friendly against familiar rivals Manchester United on Saturday at the MetLife Stadium at the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford.
After weeks of speculation regarding his future, it appears that Ghanaian international Thomas Partey will remain at Arsenal.
The Gunners had been linked with offloading the former Atletico Madrid star during the summer transfer window, but recent reports suggest that the Premier League club is no longer eager to sell the midfielder.
Sports journalist Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo has provided insight into the situation, indicating that Arsenal has changed its stance and is now focused on retaining Partey.
The 30-year-old midfielder has joined his teammates in the United States of America for the club’s preseason tour, where they will fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming season.
Previously left behind at London Colney, Partey’s inclusion in the tour signals Arsenal’s commitment to keeping him as a key player within their squad for the upcoming campaign.
Per Fentuo, Partey is noe very likely to stay at Arsenal than before. He wrote on Twitter: “Thomas Partey has joined the Arsenal team in the US for pre-season.
Thomas Partey has joined the Arsenal team in the US for pre-season. He didn’t initially fly out with the team when they left on Sunday. It is understood Arsenal are no longer keen to offload the Ghanaian midfielder. pic.twitter.com/B2s32gwmBJ
Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey, has alleviated concerns about his career by joining his teammates for the pre-season tour in the United States.
Speculation surrounding Partey’s future had been making headlines in recent times.
The signing of Declan Rice, a direct competitor, fueled reports of Partey potentially leaving Arsenal.
Although other clubs, including those based in Saudi Arabia with enticing salary offers, expressed interest, Partey is resolute in his decision to remain at Arsenal.
The 30-year-old player joined his teammates on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, ahead of their first game in the US against the MLS All-Stars.
Arsenal is showing interestin Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian and Ajax midfielder who recently scored two goals in a pre-season match on July 18, 2023, according to the Daily Mail,
Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta is reportedly impressed by Kudus’ versatility and is keen on bringing him to the Emirates.
However, any potential transfer would depend on Arsenal’s ability to offload some of their unwanted players, including Kieran Tierney, Baloghun, Rob Holding, and Cedric Soares, as the club seeks to generate funds from their sales.
The report also emphasizes that Arsenal is not willing to sell Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey unless they receive a significant offer for the 30-year-old.
The story about Mohammed Kudus has excited Arsenal fans who are calling on the club to make it happen.
On the social media platform Twitter, Arsenal reacted in excitement to the report as they believe Kudus will be the final piece of the puzzle.
They believe that Kudus is tailored for the Left Central Midfield role and could also be a competent back for Bukayo Saka on the right wing.
Mohammed Kudus has scored 23 goals and provided 11 assists in 84 games with Ajax.
Mikel Arteta has shared Arsenal’s intentions regarding Folarin Balogun, emphasizing that the club will make the “best decision” for the talented United States international striker.
Balogun, a highly-rated 22-year-old forward, experienced a significant rise in his reputation last season, impressing with 21 goals during a successful loan spell at Ligue 1 side Reims.
He also made the decision to represent the USMNT, forsaking England, and has already opened his goal-scoring account for the national team.
While Balogun has made it clear that he won’t go out on loan again, it is anticipated that a permanent transfer will be arranged for him this summer.
In the meantime, he remains part of Arsenal’s pre-season plans, featuring in friendly matches.
Arteta stated that the Gunners are currently considering their options before making a final decision on Balogun’s future.
rteta has told reporters when asked about what the immediate future holds for Balogun: “It’s great because he’s done incredibly well.
Now we have to think about what is best to do.
We want to see him, we want to experience him in the next few games, he played the last game against Nuremberg and he will do so again in the next few games, then we’ll make the best decision.”
Arsenal Football Club has unveiled its new away shirt for the upcoming 2023-24 season, drawing inspiration from the club’s origins in Islington.
The eye-catching design boasts a vibrant yellow color, accentuated by fluid black lines that symbolize the map of Arsenal’s home borough in North London.
In a departure from their traditional away shirt style, the kit features a blue badge and logos, while the collar and sleeves are adorned with the same blue hue, adding an unconventional touch to the overall look.
Ready to broadcast Islington’s finest to the world 📻
Introducing the new Arsenal x @adidasFootball 23/24 Men’s Team away kit 👇
Forward Gabriel Martinelli said of the adidas-designed strip: “I love it! It’s a fresh look and it really brings to life the style of Arsenal.
“Our supporters are incredible and it’s great that adidas and the club have created this design to celebrate them and our roots in North London.
“I can’t wait to get back on the pitch in our new away shirt.”
Arsenal’s Brazilian contingent show off their striking new away shirt
As part of their new jersey campaign, Arsenal has provided a platform for several music artists who are passionate supporters of the Gunners. This initiative celebrates the vibrant culture of Arsenal’s local area.
In a promotional video, musicians including Mabel, Sherelle, and AntsLive are featured alongside the club’s men’s first-team players, showcasing the diverse talents and shared passion for the Arsenal community.
Rapper AntsLive said: “There are so many talented Gooners all over the globe and I love the way the club is making a real effort to showcase the talent. Arsenal have always led the pack in supporting culture.
“We’ve seen them connect with supporters in North London and communities around the world in different ways and this time it’s through music and design.
“As a lifelong Gooner, it’s a special honour to feature in the launch and have my music as the soundtrack. Big up the Arsenal every time.”
Leandro Trossard will hope to have a big impact for Arsenal next season
Arsenal’s men’s team, under the management of Mikel Arteta, may unveil their new kit when they take on the MLS All-Stars in Washington DC on Wednesday night. This match is part of their schedule during their time in the United States, where they will also face renowned teams such as Manchester United and Barcelona.
Following their American tour, Arsenal will return home for a fixture against Monaco in the Emirates Cup. Subsequently, they will face off against Premier League champions Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 6, marking the traditional season-opening match.
The squad, consisting of 27 players, is set to participate in three upcoming friendly matches.
According to The Mirror, the Arsenal team departed from London Stansted Airport on Sunday afternoon, July 16, for their pre-season engagements.
Notable fixtures include a match against the MLS All-Stars, led by Wayne Rooney, scheduled for Thursday.
Subsequently, Arsenal will face off against rivals Manchester United and Spanish giants Barcelona.
Who is not in Arsenal’s squad?
Thomas Partey was the conspicuous miss in Arsenal’s travelling party.
The Ghanaian midfielder’s absence comes at a time he has been linked with a possible Emirates exit this summer.
Nicolas Pepe, Cedric, and Albert Sambi Lokonga have not been named in the squad, with Pepe also believed to be on his way out.
Reiss Nelson and Nuno Tavares will also not travel, with the latter understood to be still on holiday, per Football London.
Arthur Owonkwo, who is yet to make a senior appearance for Arsenal, was also not included.
Who is in the Arsenal squad?
The team is headlined by several senior players, including goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale and defenders William Saliba, Kieran Tierney, Ben White, and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Bukayo Saka, Jorginho, and Gabriel Martinelli are some of the other familiar names in the travelling contingent.
Seven Arsenal players have not accompanied the group on its preseason tour of the United States, including Thomas Partey.
Following interest from other Saudi Pro League clubs and Juventus this summer, the 30-year-old has been linked with a move away from Arsenal.
Partey took part in Arsenal’s pre-season friendly against Nurnberg last Thursday but was missing from the squad as they boarded their flight to the United States on Sunday.
Arsenal have not explained Partey’s absence but have said: ‘We expect Emile Smith Rowe and Thomas Partey to join us next week.’
Smith Rowe has been granted an extended break after playing for England in their successful Under-21 European Championship campaign this summer.
Nicolas Pepe, Cedric Soares and Albert Sambi Lokonga, who all left Arsenal on loan last season, have also stayed behind and will continue to train away from the first-team squad.
Nuno Tavares, who spent last season on loan at Marseille, has also stayed behind and is not considered part of Mikel Arteta’s plans.
Reiss Nelson, who signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal earlier this month, is also among those who have not travelled to the United States due to injury.
ARSENAL TRAVELLING PRE-SEASON TOUR SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS: Aaron Ramsdale, Alex Runarsson, Karl Hein
DEFENDERS: William Saliba, Kieran Tierney, Ben White, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, Jakub Kiwior, Rob Holding, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Auston Trusty, Oleksandr Zinchenko
MIDFIELDERS: Martin Odegaard, Jorginho, Fabio Vieira, Mohamed Elneny, Kai Havertz, Declan Rice
ATTACKERS: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Eddie Nketiah, Leandro Trossard, Folarin Balogun, Marquinhos, Amario Cozier-Duberry
Arsenal’s record £105 million signing Declan Rice was among the 27 players who boarded the flight from London Stansted on Sunday afternoon.
Jurrien Timber, who completed this £40m move from Ajax on Friday, is also part of the travelling squad.
Arsenal’s first game of their United States tour will be against an MLS All-Stars team managed by Wayne Rooney in Washington D.C on July 19.
Mikel Arteta’s side will then face Manchester United in New Jersey on July 22.
Arsenal’s final fixture of the tour is against Barcelona in Los Angeles on July 26.
Ghanaian international Thomas Partey will remain in England for an additional week to focus on his recovery as the club embarks on their pre-season tour to the USA.
Partey has been actively training with the Gunners for several weeks now, having returned from a brief break in Ghana.
Although he participated in Arsenal’s recent 3-3 draw against Nurnberg, the midfielder has been excluded from the squad traveling to the USA due to an injury.
However, it is anticipated that Partey, along with Emile Smith Rowe, will join their teammates in the United States next week.
In order to ensure their full recuperation, the Premier League giants have made the decision to keep the pair behind until they are ready to rejoin the team in the North American country.
Arsenal will face MLS All-Stars team at Audi Field, Washington D.C on Wednesday, July 19.
The Gunners are expected to play Manchester United in the MetLife Stadium on Saturday, July 22 in New Jersey before the wrap up their tour with a game against Barcelona on Wednesday, July 26 at SoFi Stadium.
Arsenal has officially announced the signing of Declan Rice from West Ham for a reported fee of £105 million.
The talented England international has committed to a long-term contract with the North London club following his departure from West Ham, which was confirmed earlier on Saturday.
Manager Mikel Arteta said: “We’re really happy that Declan is joining us. He is a player with tremendous ability, who has been performing at a high level in the Premier League and for England for a number of seasons now.
“Declan is bringing undoubted quality to the club and he is an exceptional talent who has the potential to be very successful here.
“Declan has great experience in the Premier League at only 24 years old. He has captained a very good West Ham team and as we all saw, he recently lifted a European trophy.
“The responsibility and role he has taken on has been very impressive and we are really excited that he is joining us.”
The addition of Declan Rice to Arsenal’s squad is another significant reinforcement under the leadership of manager Mikel Arteta. Rice’s arrival follows Jurrien Timber’s transfer from Ajax, which was completed on Friday, and Kai Havertz’s switch from Chelsea last month. These signings contribute to the overall strengthening of the team.
At 24 years old, Rice is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to compete in the UEFA Champions League, marking a notable milestone in his career. Arsenal’s impressive second-place finish last season secured their qualification for the prestigious tournament, providing Rice with the chance to showcase his skills on the grand stage of European club football.
Rice said: “Mikel Arteta is a massive factor in the reason why I’ve come here.
“I’m so excited — he speaks for himself. You see how he works — you also got a real insight into how he works on the Amazon documentary. He’s a top coach.”
Rice will wear the No41 shirt at his new club — the same number he donned at West Ham.
Rice departs the Hammers on a high having captained his boyhood club to victory in the Europa Conference League last month.
Announcing Rice’s exit, co-chairman David Sullivan said: “I am sorry to see Declan leave us, but I believe that everyone at West Ham United should be very proud of the part we have played in his journey.
“I would like to make it clear to our supporters that we did not want to sell Declan.
“We wanted to build our team around him and made a series of improved, long-term contract offers to secure his future.
“However, once Declan made it clear that he wished to move on and seek a new challenge, the club felt it would not be right to stand in his way, acting in the best interests of West Ham United.”
David Moyes’ Irons will now seek to reinvest the huge sum in finding a replacement for Rice, with Southampton skipper James Ward-Prowse linked with a switch to the London Stadium.
It follows high-profile signings like Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber for the North London club this summer’s transfer window.
The deal also eclipses the £72m Arsenal paid for Nicolas Pepe from Lille in 2019, and is also a record transfer fee between two British clubs.
But how does the record fee compare to some of the other record-breaking transfer figures in the Premier League?
Let’s take a look at the other most expensive deals in the league’s history and how the latest fee for Rice compares…
Enzo Fernandez – Benfica to Chelsea, £106.5m
Enzo Fernandez was signed by Chelsea from Benfica in the last transfer window, and the £106.5m transfer fee made Fernandez the most expensive player in Premier League history.
Fernandez was the final signing of a wild transfer window for the Blues, which also saw them buy David Datro Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Andrey Santos, Joao Felix (on loan), Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke and Malo Gusto – but the team still struggled to finish in the top ten last season.
Fernandez has so far only made 18 appearances for the club, and is yet to score for the London side.
Jack Grealish – Aston Villa to Manchester City, £100m
Grealish left boyhood club Aston Villa – who he had been with since the age of six – to link up with the Premier League champions in August 2021.
The England international had a slow start to life in Manchester as he struggled to adjust to the intense tactical demands of Pep Guardiola.
However, Grealish has begun to find his feet this term, and will likely play a crucial part in City’s bid to catch Arsenal at the top of the Premier League summit.
Romelu Lukaku – Inter Milan to Chelsea, £97.5m
Lukaku returned to Chelsea seven years after leaving west London, with the Blues paying just shy of £100m in August 2021 following his goalscoring exploits in Italian football in previous years.
However, the Belgian striker’s second stint at Chelsea quickly turned sour, with injury struggles and a dip in form seeing him lose his spot in the starting XI.
And after criticising then-manager Thomas Tuchel in an interview midway through the season in which he also said he wished he stayed at Inter, Lukaku duly returned to San Siro on loan after just one season with Chelsea.
Paul Pogba – Juventus to Manchester United, £93.25m
United completed the blockbuster signing of Pogba from Juventus in August 2016, with the Frenchman returning to the club he first joined as an academy player in 2009.
However, Pogba failed to live up the lofty expectations of his price tag, struggling for consistency as the club became unsettled on and off the pitch.
His six year spell at Old Trafford came to an end in 2022, sealing a return back to Juventus on a free transfer.
Mykhailo Mudryk – Shakhtar Donetsk to Chelsea, £88.5m
The Ukrainian international was at the centre of a dramatic transfer saga involving Chelsea and Arsenal in the January 2023 window.
Arsenal had been in pole position to sign him all month, but were pipped to the deal at the eleventh hour when Chelsea transfer chiefs flew to Poland to sensationally hijack the deal.
It is thought Chelsea offered Mudryk more in wages than the Gunners, as well as offering a more favourable payment structure to Shakhtar Donetsk.
Antony – Ajax to Manchester United, £85m
United completed a deal to bring the Brazilian winger to Manchester in September 2022.
Antony was reunited with manager Erik ten Hag, who coached the 22 year-old during his time in charge of Dutch giants Ajax.
It has been a slow start to Premier League life so far for Antony, but the player still has plenty of time to find his feet and justify his hefty price tag.
The other biggest signings in Premier League history
Harry Maguire – Leicester to Manchester United, £78m
Romelu Lukaku – Everton to Manchester United, £75m
Virgil Van Dijk – Southampton to Liverpool, £75m
Jadon Sancho – Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United, £73m
Kai Havertz – Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea, £72m
Nicolas Pepe – Lille to Arsenal, £72m
Kepa Arrizabalaga – Athletic Bilbao to Chelsea, £71.6m
The altercation occurred when Nketiah attempted to waste time while Arsenal was in the lead.
Rice acknowledged the incident but assured that their relationship has since improved, stating that all is well between them now.
He expressed excitement about the opportunity to play alongside his new teammate.
Speaking to Arsenal’s official website, Rice said, “I played with Eddie from under-nines to under-14s. We were both released on the same day and it’s crazy where football takes you, your journey.
“He’s made it through the ranks at Arsenal, I made it through the ranks at West Ham. Now we get to link back up again.
“I’ve always loved Eddie, even though we had that little altercation on the pitch before! I’ve always loved him and been close to his family. His dad is a top, top guy who used to come on all the tours with us as kids, so I’m really looking forward to seeing Eddie again and of course the other boys.”
The midfielder, who completed a move to Arsenal on Saturday for a club-record transfer fee of £105m ($137m), is now looking forward to a reunion with the Arsenal striker.
Mikel Arteta’s charges have started their pre-season training and played two friendly games on July 8 and July 13 against Watford and Nurnberg.
They will now travel to the USA to face Manchester United, Barcelona and Monaco.
Declan Rice wrote a heartfelt farewell letter to West Ham supporters in which he discusses the reasons behind his decision to join Arsenal.
The move of the England international set a British record, and it was announced on Saturday before the Gunners made an official statement.
The 24-year-old was selected by Mikel Arteta as his top summer priority, and after drawn-out, arduous discussions, the Arsenal manager has finally secured his services, but only after a colossal £105 million fee was reached.
A cash injection of that magnitude for the Hammers will help soften the blow of losing their influential skipper and provide some comfort to Rice, who confessed the decision to leave the club at which he has spent the entirety of his professional career was a difficult one.
Rice also attracted interest from Manchester City but he only had eyes for Arsenal, whose return to the Champions League after a six-year absence proved a huge motivating factor behind his decision to move across the capital.
”My last thank-you must go to you, the supporters,’ Rice wrote. ‘The loyal, passionate, devoted, at times hilarious, and always honest Hammers, who are massive everywhere you go…!
‘You have taken me into your hearts as one of your own from day one. Even when it was just a handful of fans at the Under-18 or Under-23 games, I felt that love, and it has just grown stronger as the years have passed.
‘Playing in front of you has been an honour, we have had such great times together, and you all mean so much to me.
‘I want you to know how tough a decision it has been for me to leave an environment that I have loved and cherished so much. Ultimately, though, it has only ever been about my ambition to play at the very highest level of the game.
‘Playing on the opposite team to West Ham for the first time will be an unusual experience. I’m not sure yet exactly how I will feel, but I also know you will all understand and respect that my professional loyalties have to now lie with my new Club. I will always give 100% every single time I pull on the shirt – because that is how I have been brought up at West Ham, and I’m sure you wouldn’t expect anything else.
‘However, that does not mean my love and respect for you all has been diminished in any way. This Club and its supporters will always be in my heart, and forever a part of who I am.’
Declan Rice’s departure from West Ham has been officially announced, and he will soon join Arsenal in a British transfer record.
Following the historic Europa Conference League victory last season, the England international made it plain that he wanted to leave the Hammers.
The 24-year-old was Mikel Arteta’s top summer target, and after protracted discussions that nearly fell apart due to rival interest from Manchester City, the Gunners are finally close to landing their man.
The decision to let Rice depart has been a difficult one for all at the east London club, but a £105million cash injection will go some way to sweetening the deal and allow manager David Moyes the opportunity to strengthen his own squad.
In a statement confirming Rice’s imminent departure, Joint-Chair David Sullivan said: ‘I am sorry to see Declan leave us, but I believe that everyone at West Ham United should be very proud of the part we have played in his journey from the Academy of Football at Chadwell Heath to becoming the most valuable young player in English football.
‘I would like to make it clear to our supporters that we did not want to sell Declan. We wanted to build our team around him and made a series of improved, long-term contract offers to secure his future. However, once Declan made it clear that he wished to move on and seek a new challenge, the Club felt it would not be right to stand in his way, acting in the best interests of West Ham United.
‘He leaves with the sincere thanks, respect and love of everyone here, having earned his place in history alongside the great Bobby Moore and Billy Bonds as the only players to have captained West Ham United to a major trophy. More than that, he has always given absolutely everything for the football club throughout his time with us.
‘Declan will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Hammers fans and everyone here at the Club. We wish him well for the future and he will always be an inspiration and an example to any young player coming through our Academy.’
Moyes added: ‘I’d like to personally thank Declan for everything he has done during his time at West Ham United. Obviously it is sad when we say goodbye to someone who has been with us for so long but we must now look forward.
‘West Ham United is a huge Club and, as history shows, no player is ever bigger than the Club.
‘Our entire focus now is on building upon the success we enjoyed last season, adding to our talented UEFA Europa Conference League title winning squad as we enter our third consecutive season in Europe, and continuing to develop the best young talent through our successful Academy.’
Timber spent nine years at Ajax after joining the Dutch giants at youth level from arch-rivals Feyenoord in 2014.
His switch to North London will feel particularly special after revealing his love for the Gunners from a young age.
In his first interview as an Arsenal player, Timber said: “I’ve always been a fan of Arsenal.
“It was because of my brothers. They were always Arsenal fans and I just loved seeing Arsenal play. They had big players, the way they played, the style. I just love the club.
“I had this from a young age but my brothers kind of put that in me. I liked watching Robin van Persie of course, and Thierry Henry. They were my favourite players.”
Netherlands international Timber played 121 games in total for Ajax, winning three trophies.
He was also named the Eredivisie Player of the Year in 2021-22 as the Amsterdam outfit won their 36th league title.
His ability to play as a centre-back or right-back will add some much-needed depth to the Arsenal squad ahead of their return to the Champions League.
After finally sealing the deal for Timber, West Ham captain Declan Rice is expected to be Arsenal’s next arrival as Arteta continues to bolster his squad.
Saka showcased his talent by scoring a fantastic goal, cutting in from the right wing and confidently slotting the ball into the bottom corner.
Folarin Balogun also came close to extending Arsenal’s lead, hitting the post with his effort.
During the match, Kai Havertz made his debut as a substitute in the second half.
Surprisingly, Nurnberg managed to mount a comeback and equalized with an unusual own goal.
Arsenal’s substitute goalkeeper, Karl Hein, played a loose pass from the edge of his own box. Jorginho, attempting to control the ball, inadvertently redirected it into his team’s net.
Balogun had another opportunity to put Arsenal ahead, but he once again missed from close range.
Saka was as effervescent as ever, looking every bit as sharp as he did in the 2022-23 season.
Ghanaian international Thomas Partey has reportedly been offered £400,000 per week by the Saudi Arabian team Al Ahli as they step up their efforts to sign the Ghanaian from Arsenal.
According to a report by British journalist Ollie, Partey has already approved the agreement, but Arsenal reportedly rejected Ahli’s £30 million offer.
More than £45 million is allegedly what Arsenal wants for the former Atletico Madrid midfielder.
Partey is reportedly being watched by Italian team Juventus as well as Saudi Arabian clubs in the hopes of a prospective transfer.
At the moment, the 30-year-old has returned to Arsenal for pre-season despite the transfer rumours.
Arsenal are looking to offload Thomas Partey following the signing of Declan Rice, from West Ham United.
West Ham is becoming increasingly frustrated with the ongoing delay in finalizing Declan Rice’s much-anticipated transfer to Arsenal.
Sky Sports has reported that the Hammers’ board is growing impatient as Arsenal has failed to provide the necessary legal documentation to complete the deal.
Although a substantial fee of £105 million ($132m) was agreed upon eight days ago, making it the most significant Premier League transfer of the summer thus far, the official announcement is still pending.
The hold-up seems to stem from a delay in Arsenal’s legal team preparing the required contracts.
Considering that the deal has been widely known in football circles for weeks, it is understandable that West Ham is eager to have the paperwork signed and sealed, allowing them to proceed with their own transfer business.
Rice has passed his medical and is currently on holiday in Portugal where he has been keeping himself in shape before he can finally join up with his new team-mates.
All parties will be hoping the lawyers get their act together in time for Rice to jump on the plane for Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the United States, which begins next week.
The deal, reportedly worth £10 million per year, ensures that Saliba will remain with Arsenal until 2027.
Notably, the contract does not include a release clause.
The 22-year-old French player joined Arsenal in 2019, and his previous deal was set to expire in 2024. However, with his new contract, Saliba has committed his future to the club for an extended period.
It is worth mentioning that Arsenal does not have the option to further extend the agreement beyond the four-year term.
Saliba made 27 Premier League appearances last season as Mikel Arteta’s side finished second behind Manchester City.
Arsenal are also close to completing a deal to signJurrien Timber from Ajax, but Arteta may view Saliba as a potential partner for the Dutchman ahead of the 2023-24 season.
Bayer Leverkusen has officially completed the signing of Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka (30) from Arsenal, securing his services on a five-year contract.
While the exact financial details have not been disclosed, reports from British media indicate that the German club paid around 25 million euros to secure the former Arsenal captain.
Xhaka, who joins the ranks of Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen, brings significant experience after spending seven seasons with Arsenal.
During his time at the English club, he made 297 appearances, scoring 23 goals and providing 29 assists.
Xhaka played a key role in Arsenal’s success, contributing to their two FA Cup victories.
This move marks Xhaka’s return to the German league, where he previously played for Borussia Moenchengladbach for four years before joining Arsenal in 2016.
“I know the league inside out and I watched it when I was in London. Bayer 04 is a club with an impressive history and ambitious targets,” said Xhaka.
“Above all, I see it as a club with a great future. Everybody here is ambitious and wants to achieve something – I’m very much looking forward tothe next few years.”
Arsenal striker, Gabriel Jesus, has revealed the circumstances that led to his departure from Manchester City and his subsequent move to the Emirates Stadium last summer.
Jesus initially joined Manchester City as a teenager from the Brazilian club Palmeiras in 2019, with a reported transfer fee of £27 million.
During his time at City, he served as a backup to the veteran striker Sergio Aguero until Aguero’s departure in 2021.
According to Sky Sports, the signings of strikers Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez prompted the 26-year-old to seek a new opportunity last summer.
Ultimately, he chose Arsenal as his next destination, reuniting with former City assistant Mikel Arteta, who was then managing Arsenal.
Why Jesus left Man City
For the first time since he left the Etihad Stadium, the Brazil international has opened up on what transpired and when he knew his time with the English champions was up.
”There was a Champions League game, PSG, at home, in which he [Guardiola] put Zinchenko as a false 9. Crazy thing,” Jesus said on the Denilson Show podcast.
“The day before, he didn’t even use [Zinchenko] in training, he had put me in as a striker. … Zinchenko even joked with me: ‘that day I felt bad for you.’
“Two hours before the game, there’s a team talk, the team eats, rests for 30 minutes and goes to the game.
“He told us the team, I didn’t even eat. I went straight to the room, crying, I called my mother to talk: ‘I want to leave.’ I’m going home, because he put [Zinchenko] on, and he didn’t put me on. He put a left-back there. I went crazy.”
According to City’s official statement at his departure, he played 236 games, scored 95 goals, provided 46 assists and won 11 trophies in sky blue.
Jesus gives title advice
Sports Brief reported thatJesus gave Arsenal teammates title advice when they were eight points clear of Manchester City, but unfortunately, they crumbled.
Jesus and Zinchenko came into the Gunners squad with experience, having won four titles each at Manchester, but their expertise could not rub off on the team, and they lost it.
Jeremie Frimpong is attracting interest from Arsenal, Manchester United, and other clubs, according to German outlet Bild.
Bayer Leverkusen is preparing for the possibility of the young player’s departure this summer.
Frimpong, who previously played for Celtic, has been making a strong impression since joining Bayer Leverkusen.
The 22-year-old’s performances in the Bundesliga have caught attention, showcasing his dynamic style of play.
Last season, the Dutch-born Ghanaian contributed eight goals and seven assists from the right wing-back position in the German top-flight.
Overall, he had an impressive tally of 20 goal involvements across all competitions.
Sources indicate that Mikel Arteta is keen on securing Frimpong’s services for Arsenal.
However, they face competition from Manchester United, who have been in contact regarding a potential transfer for several months, as per the report from Bild.
Former England international and football pundit, John Barnes, has expressed his astonishment at the possibility of Arsenal parting ways with midfielder Thomas Partey.
Amidst the ongoing transfer speculation surrounding the talented Ghanaian star, Barnes shared his disbelief and stated that if Arsenal were to offload Partey, it would catch him completely off guard.
Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid, is rumored to be deemed surplus to requirements for the upcoming 2023/24 football season and is expected to leave the London club.
Reports suggest that Saudi clubs have shown interest in signing the Black Stars midfielder, while Serie A club Juventus has also been linked with him.
Barnes expressed his surprise at the potential sale of Partey, considering him to be Arsenal’s best defensive midfield player.
He pondered whether there might be a personality issue at play with Partey. Barnesshared these thoughts in an interview with Futfanatico.
“Arsenal potentially selling Thomas Partey would surprise me because I think he’s their best defensive midfield player. Is it a personality thing with Partey?,” he told Futfanatico
“Partey has done really well for Arsenal but it could be similar to [Joao] Cancelo with Manchester City and Pep [Guardiola]. We don’t know the ins and outs of it but I am surprised because he’s a strong defensive midfielder,”
“Declan Rice could be coming in so they may decide Rice is the best option going forward.”
Reports indicate that AS Monaco is showing interest in Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey. His representatives are said to be exploring the possibility of a summer departure.
It has come to light that there is also interest from Saudi Arabia in the former Atletico Madrid player, who is currently contracted with Arsenal until 2025.
European clubs, including Monaco, have shown interest, and there are rumors of several Italian clubs being keen on acquiring Partey’s services, though their identities remain undisclosed.
Monaco is expected to be actively seeking a midfielder in the summer transfer window. While they had previously expressed interest in Arsenal’s Sambi Lokonga, the Belgian player opted for a loan move to Crystal Palace in January.
Monaco’s need for midfield reinforcements has intensified with the potential departure of Youssouf Fofana.
Partey’s notable performances throughout the previous season were instrumental in Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title, bringing them closer than they had been in years.
The future of Thomas Partey at Arsenal remains uncertain. However, the increasing interest from Saudi Arabia, Monaco, and other European clubs suggests that a move away from the London club could be on the horizon.
The Ivorian winger is set to return to Arsenal after a loan spell at Nice, where he scored six goals in 19 Ligue 1 appearances last season.
Pepe, who joined the Gunners in 2019 for a club-record fee, struggled to meet the expectations associated with his price tag.
During the 2021-2022 season, he fell out of favor under Arteta’s leadership and believes that he was not given a fair chance by the Basque manager.
Not happy
Nicolas Pepe struggled for game time under Mikel Arteta
Speaking to Colinterview, the left-footed winger said: “People say that he identified me as a player that wasn’t up to the level in his team, in his philosophy.
“It’s completely false. When he arrived, he had (Manchester) City’s philosophy. He had a squad that was filled with quality and backups in every position.
“When he spoke to me, he said he counted on me, he wanted me to do this or that, and you have to focus on that.
“He improved me in every way. He spoke to me the whole time, I watched videos with his assistants all the time. He really believed in me.
“He said I had incredible potential, so we need to extract that potential. At the end of the first season, he spoke with me and told me to do this or that.
“The second season comes along, I was a substitute. I was going mad. How could I be a substitute when he said he counted on me? Everything is spinning in your head.
“I was a substitute. It was at the time when they signed Willian. He is a number 10 or a winger. But he plays on the wing for like 11 or 12 matches in a row.”
Pepe was restricted to just20 Premier League appearances in the 2021-22 campaign, the former Lille attacker scoring just one goal during his 681 minutes of action.
And his latest outburst will likely mean a 12-minute cameo in Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Everton on May 22, 2022, is his final showing for the Gunners in the English top-flight.
The forward has been consistently linked with a possible transfer this summer as Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta aims to generate funds for new signings.
According to The Mirror, Balogun is highly sought after and considered one of the most promising young strikers in Europe.
The 21-year-old, who came through the ranks of Arsenal’s academy, had a successful loan spell at Ligue 1 club Reims last season, impressively scoring 21 goals.
His exceptional goal-scoring record has attracted interest from several European clubs.
Although Arsenal recognizes Balogun’s immense talent, he is unlikely to be guaranteed regular playing time at the Emirates in the upcoming season.
As a result, Arsenal has reportedly set a price tag of £35 million for the young forward, and numerous clubs are already showing interest in acquiring his services.
Bolagun’s cryptic tweet
The young forward has further fuelled speculation on his imminent exit by posting a cryptic tweet.
The Arsenal ace, who made it public that he was tweeting from Enfield, posted an egg-timer emoji with the caption:
“It is time!”
The tweet sparked a plethora of panicked reactions from fans, who wondered if this meant the forward had found his new club.
Meanwhile, AC Milan are believed to be the leading contenders for the services of the USA international.
There are reports that Thomas Partey has informed Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta about his intention to leave the club, footballtransfers.com has reported.
The Ghanaian midfielder has expressed his unwillingness to play a secondary role in the upcoming season and has asked for assistance from Arsenal to secure a transfer to another club.
Although Arteta would prefer to keep Partey, he has reluctantly agreed to facilitate the transfer as long as a reasonable price can be obtained for the player’s transfer fee.
Initial discussions have taken place with clubs in Saudi Arabia and Juventus, but as of now, no concrete offers have materialized.
Consequently, Arsenal is now intensifying negotiations with Southampton regarding a potential move for Romeo Lavia.
Furthermore, Arsenal will hold further discussions withThomas Partey to clarify his future aspirations and ascertain the best course of action for all parties involved.
He has been with Arsenal since 2020 and was key for them last season.
Arsenal is considering a potential move for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) striker, Kylian Mbappe, whose contract is set to expire next season.
Reports suggest that Mbappe has indicated he will not extend his contract, which could force PSG to sell him to avoid losing him for free.
Football Transfers indicates that Arsenal is contemplating making an offer to Mbappe’s representatives with the intention of acquiring him in 2024.
While Mbappe has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, a transfer in this window would depend on PSG lowering their asking price.
If Real Madrid fails to secure a deal, Arsenal could seize the opportunity and secure one of the biggest transfers in Premier League history.
Mbappe, who joined PSG from Monaco in 2017, has an impressive record of 212 goals in 260 games across all competitions, consistently finishing as Ligue 1’s top scorer in the last five seasons.
Additionally, Football Transfers suggests that if Arsenal fails to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton or Romeo Lavia from Southampton, they may reignite their interest in Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.
Osimhen’s impressive performances last season for Napoli have made him highly sought after in the transfer market.
He played a significant role in Napoli’s Scudetto triumph and etched his name in the history books as the first African player to win the Golden Boot award in Italy, having scored 26 league goals.
While enjoying his holidays in Lagos, Osimhen participated in a small match on Wednesday, June 28, where he showcased his skills by dribbling past three players before unleashing a remarkable shot that found the back of the net, leaving fans in awe.
After viewing the video, Piers Morgan, aged 58, expressed his belief on Twitter that Arsenal should make a move for Osimhen, emphasizing his admiration for the Nigerian striker’s abilities.
Piers Morgan hails Osimhen
”If Arsenal wants to win big trophies, they need a world-class striker who will score 25+ goals a season. I’d break the bank for Osimhen.”
Onazi hosts Osimhen, Asiwaju Lerry
Earlier,it was reported how an awesome video was spotted on social media where Super Eagles legend Ogenyi Onazi was seen hosting Napoli striker Victor Osimhen and media personality Asiwaju Lerry in his mansion in Lagos.
After a successful season in Serie A with Napoli winning the Scudetto for them after 33 years, Osimhen returned to Nigeria to spend his holiday and he has been going from one place to another.
The former Lille star has also visited his childhood house in Olusosun and also the primary school he went to where all the people around those two environments were happy to see the football star.
The Athletic reports that Arsenal’s promising teenager, Ethan Nwaneri, has pledged his future to the club.
The 16-year-old player has reportedly signed scholarship forms with Arsenal and has agreed to a professional contract, which will come into effect when he turns 17 in March 2024.
This commitment comes at a crucial time as his schoolboy registration was set to expire on June 30. Arsenal is securing Nwaneri’s talents and ensuring his continued development within the club.
Aged 15 years and 181 days, Nwaneri became the youngest player in Premier League history when he came on against Brentford in September to beat the record held by Harvey Elliott.
The England youth international, who is an Arsenal fan and was raised a short distance from the Emirates Stadium, reportedly turned down more lucrative financial offers from elsewhere to stay at the Gunners, with his desire always to continue his career there.
As the highly skilled West Ham midfielder is expected to depart from the club this summer, both Arsenal and Manchester City are engaged in a battle to secure his services.
On Tuesday, June 27, Manchester City made a £90 million offer for Rice, which was promptly turned down by West Ham.
In fact, several reports have suggested West Ham have been left angered by the bid as they feel it was disrespectful on Manchester City’s end.
While the Citizens will certainly need to revamp their midfield after losing Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona, Aluko believes Pep Guardiola is not necessarily keen on signing Rice.
“I think there’s a lot of cat and mouse going on here,” She said as quoted on TalkSport.
“I don’t think Manchester City actually want to sign Declan Rice, I think what’s going on is Arteta has picked up the phone to Pep [Guardiola] and said ‘listen, Arsenal are going to do the incremental bid approach, if you put a higher bid in, that will push my owner.”
Aluko was then asked whether this was a tactic to get signings to be done quickly, to which she replied:
“For speed, but to also get the deal done. Because West Ham obviously want a set valuation, I think £120m.”
Despite losing Gundogan. City have all but completed the signing of Matteo Kovacic, who is set to join the club from Chelsea in a £25million deal.
Before joining Arsenal, Mikel Arteta was Guardiola’s number two at Manchester City and the two oversaw the success of the team for several years.
Guardiola famously got one over his friend last season as Arsenal surrendered an 8-point lead at the top to enable City to set themselves up for a treble triumph.
Players set for summer switch
Sports Brief also reported on a list of big names set to make a move in the summer.
Clubs around the globe will be looking to offer the best deals to these free agents with the hope of eventually getting their signatures on the dotted lines of the contract papers.
The likes of Marco Asensio, Moussa Dembele and David De Gea all face uncertain futures and could make stunning transfers.
Arsenal has submitted a third bid forWest Ham United captain Declan Rice, aiming to secure his transfer in a move that would set a new record for a British player, according to the Athletic,
The Gunners have allegedly put forward an offer of £100 million, with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons.
This bid comes shortly after West Ham rejected Manchester City’s initial offer of £90 million for the talented England international.
City have already secured a £30m deal for Mateo Kovacic but also are keen to add Rice to their midfield options following Ilkay Gundogan’s decision to join Barcelona on a free transfer.
Since making his debut at age 18, Rice has made 245 appearances for the east London club. He has one year left on his contract, but West Ham also hold an option to extend his deal by a further year.
It has been widely reported that West Ham expects Rice to leave this summer but have so far held firm with their demands to receive a record fee for their midfield general.
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