Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw by Como in their latest pre-season friendly, but the Gunners did claim victory on penalties. Myles Lewis-Skelly scored and delivered an impressive display, sending Mikel Arteta a clear statement about his future amid reported interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.
Lewis-Skelly shines as Arsenal dominate
Arsenal were the superior side but failed to convert their dominance into goals. Gabriel Jesus struck the woodwork early after Eberechi Eze capitalised on an error, but Arsenal did break the deadlock following a defensive blunder. Myles Lewis-Skelly picked off a wayward clearance and scored, with his celebration indicating where his loyalties lie.
Martin Baturina equalised for Como with a superb solo effort, bypassing Theo Julienne and Max Dowman before scoring. Arsenal controlled the second half but missed numerous chances.
Shootout success and player ratings
David Raya saved two spot-kicks in the shootout, while Noni Madueke hit the upright, as Arsenal prevailed. Here are the Daily Star Sport player ratings.
Kepa Arrizabalaga – Could do very little about the goal but made a good first-half save low to his left. 6.
Theo Julienne – A great opportunity for the youngster to play more than half a game at senior level. He was beaten by great skill for the Como goal but did not look out of place. 5.
Marli Salmon – An exceptionally mature and commanding display from the young centre-back. Robust, calm and intelligent, particularly under pressure. 8.
Gabriel – Took a knock and was withdrawn at the interval with the Community Shield in mind. A handful of decent defensive interventions. 6.
Piero Hincapie – Steady showing from the Ecuadorian, rarely troubled down the left flank. 6.
Myles Lewis-Skelly – During a 48-hour spell where Chelsea and Manchester United reportedly contacted regarding the 19-year-old's signature, this strike was a significant statement. His celebration left no doubt about his loyalty to Arsenal. His display beyond the finish was equally impressive, his finest of the summer. 8.
Eberechi Eze – Remarkably sharp given he recently returned to training. Encouraging touches and distribution. 7.
Ethan Nwaneri – The most impressive we've seen him this summer. The 18-year-old was lively and menacing, fashioning multiple opportunities. 7.
Max Dowman – A constant menace, cutting infield, though he may need to distribute slightly earlier. 6.
Gabriel Jesus – Missed the opening major opportunity after a defensive error, hitting the woodwork with an empty net. Substituted after just 31 disappointing minutes. 4.
Gabriel Martinelli – Offered little menace, with a reported bid from Galatasaray in the background. 5.
Substitutes and impact
Viktor Gyokeres – Forceful in attack but couldn't turn possession into a clear-cut chance. 6.
Fabio Vieira – Should have buried a one-on-one chance created by Martin Odegaard. 4.
Martin Odegaard – Instantly delivered defence-splitting passes, one of which ought to have been converted. 7.
Cristhian Mosquera – Still unsettled amid speculation Arsenal are returning for Ezri Konsa. 5.
Bruno Guimaraes – Plenty of praise for the debutant, with robust tackles and tidy passes. Produced a superb interception at the death. 7.
David Raya – The backline appeared more assured with his presence. Sharp handling and fine saves, including two in the shootout. 8.
Riccardo Calafiori – Solid defensive contributions with aerial challenges, advancing high to join build-up play. 5.
Ben White – Not as impressive as recent matches, spun a couple of times, but likely to feature on Sunday. 5.
Kai Havertz – Dragged an effort wide from outside the area. 5.
Mikel Merino – Needs more playing time to regain sharpness. 5.
Christos Tzolis – Superb deliveries suggest Arsenal have found another set-piece specialist. 6.
Josh Ogunnaike – Introduced too late to assess. n/a.
