Two cheap concessions, a missed penalty, and a late goal from one of their brightest young prospect. Mikela Arteta’s men suffered a shock loss in their first pre-season friendly match against Scottish outfit Hibernian, despite the manager fielding several senior players.
Arsenal started the first half with returning loanees Sead Kolasinac and Ainsley Maitland-Niles in the squad. Willian and Reiss Nelson flanked the two forwards – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Eddie Nketiah – while there was also a place in the team for Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares.
Arteta also handed a start to youngsters Arthur Okonkwo and Harry Clarke. The former – a goalkeeper – played a huge part in Hibernian’s opening goal, which arrived in the 21st minute. Okonkwo missed a routine clearance that allowed Martin Boyle to ghost behind to tap the ball into an empty net.
Defensive lapses were Arsenal’s undoing again in the second half when Daniel McKay headed the ball in following a corner, although the Hibs star seemed offside on second viewing. Nicholas Pepe had his penalty saved shortly after, keeping the score 2-0 to Hibernian. However, the Gunners did manage to pull one back in the 82nd minute through Emile Smith-Rowe, who smashed the ball into the net from close range.
There was some positive news for Arsenal fans after the match. Arteta confirmed to the media that Smith-Rowe would remain at the club for the foreseeable future despite links to Aston Villa. The Villains had had two bids rejected for the England youth international and were said to be preparing a third one.
Meanwhile, the Arsenal manager also settled Joe Willock’s links to Newcastle United by claiming the youngster to be a part of his plans. Willock missed the friendly against Hibernian but could return to the squad when the Gunners take on Scottish champions Rangers.
