Analysis: Why Arsenal’s victory over Girona showed Arteta’s attack could be stronger than ever
By Joel Masibo, August 2, 2026Arsenal’s 4-1 pre-season win over Girona on Saturday, August 1, 2026, was about much more than another comfortable friendly victory. While the scoreline itself was impressive, the biggest takeaway from the trip to Catalonia was the growing depth, flexibility and competition within Mikel Arteta’s attacking unit ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
With several key attacking players still unavailable following extended breaks after the World Cup, Arsenal still produced a fluent, entertaining display that suggested the Premier League champions may possess even more firepower than last season.
Max Dowman continues to make a huge statement
Once again, 16-year-old Max Dowman was impossible to ignore.
The academy graduate was involved in almost everything dangerous Arsenal created and continues to strengthen his case for regular first-team opportunities.
His contribution to the opening goal highlighted why so many within the club rate him so highly. After escaping his marker with a brilliant turn, he threaded a perfectly weighted pass into Kai Havertz, who calmly finished to give Arsenal the lead.
Dowman’s influence didn’t end there. After Girona briefly reduced the deficit early in the second half, he immediately restored Arsenal’s authority with a powerful strike from outside the area before also helping drive the team’s attacking rhythm throughout his time on the pitch.
For a teenager, his composure, creativity and confidence suggest he is already capable of contributing at senior level.
Tzolis delivers the perfect first impression
Summer signing Christos Tzolis also enjoyed an excellent outing.
Operating mainly from the left flank, the Greek winger constantly threatened Girona’s defence with intelligent movement and direct running. His partnership with Riccardo Calafiori developed quickly, allowing Arsenal to repeatedly attack down that side.
His reward arrived before half-time when his low effort took a slight deflection before finding the bottom corner.
Beyond the goal, however, his overall display was encouraging. He pressed aggressively, linked play well and looked comfortable within Arteta’s tactical system from the opening whistle.
If this performance is an indication of what lies ahead, Arsenal have added another dangerous option capable of easing the workload on their established forwards.
Havertz looks refreshed
Kai Havertz also appeared far sharper than he did during parts of last season.
The German striker made intelligent runs behind Girona’s defensive line, finished confidently for the opener and looked comfortable linking play with the younger attackers around him.
With increased competition for attacking places, Havertz’s sharp performance could be an early sign that he is ready to produce another productive campaign.
Girona’s response was short-lived
Girona briefly threatened to make the contest more competitive after captain Arnau Martinez headed home from a corner shortly after the restart.
However, Arsenal’s response demonstrated one of the biggest improvements Arteta will want from his side this season—reacting immediately after conceding.
Dowman’s powerful strike restored the two-goal cushion just three minutes later before Gabriel Jesus capitalised on defensive confusion to make it 4-1 and effectively end the contest.
Rather than allowing Girona momentum, Arsenal immediately regained control.
Academy depth continues to impress
As expected in pre-season, Arteta made numerous substitutions during the second half.
Even with several senior players replaced by academy graduates, Arsenal maintained their structure, pressing intensity and attacking threat.
That consistency reflects the growing connection between the club’s academy and first team, with young players increasingly capable of fitting seamlessly into Arteta’s demanding style.
Lewis-Skelly’s development remains encouraging
While much attention understandably centred on Dowman, Myles Lewis-Skelly quietly delivered another mature performance.
Known primarily for his defensive work, the midfielder repeatedly progressed the ball through intelligent forward passing and helped Arsenal maintain control in midfield.
His ability to combine defensive discipline with creative distribution provides Arteta with another valuable tactical option.
Arsenal’s biggest strength may now be their attack
Last season, questions were occasionally asked about Arsenal’s ability to consistently convert dominance into goals.
This performance suggested those concerns may be fading.
Even without several established attacking stars, Arsenal created chances regularly, scored four goals and showcased multiple players capable of making decisive contributions.
The emergence of Dowman, the promising debut of Tzolis, the sharpness of Havertz and the continued development of Lewis-Skelly all point towards a squad with significantly greater attacking depth.
If these early signs continue into the competitive season, Arsenal could possess one of the Premier League’s most complete attacking units as they prepare to defend their league title while challenging again in Europe.
The Gunners will now look to build on this encouraging display when they face Real Betis in their next pre-season fixture before attention turns to the Community Shield and the start of the new Premier League season.