Cesc Fabregas is back at the Emirates Stadium as his Como side take on Arsenal in a pre-season friendly this evening. The former Gunners captain has led Como to a fourth-placed finish in Serie A last season, securing Champions League qualification for the first time in the club's history.
Reception for Fabregas and Arsenal's form
Due to his ties with Chelsea, it will be interesting to hear what kind of reception Fabregas receives from the Emirates faithful, though Arsenal supporters may want to focus their energy on their own team following back-to-back defeats in pre-season. After conceding three against Real Betis in Dublin last week, the Gunners' defensive frailties were exposed once again at the weekend, losing the Emirates Cup showdown with Borussia Dortmund.
Team news and debutants
On a positive note, £75million summer signing Bruno Guimaraes is poised to make his debut, potentially partnering Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield as Mikel Arteta starts preparing for Sunday's Community Shield clash against Manchester City. Arsenal's World Cup stars, Mikel Merino, David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke have all resumed training following their extended breaks, but are unlikely to feature. Meanwhile, Jurrien Timber is still weeks away from a return and William Saliba is a long-term absentee.
How to watch Arsenal vs Como
TV channel and live stream: In the UK, the game will be shown for free via Arsenal's YouTube channel. Kick-off is at 7.30pm BST, so coverage should begin shortly before. Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport's live blog, with expert analysis from Matt Verri at the Emirates Stadium.
