Guimaraes makes Arsenal debut in pre‑season friendly against Como

Guimaraes stepped onto the pitch for Arsenal at half‑time in a 2‑2 draw with Italian side Como on Saturday. The 19‑year‑old arrived from Newcastle for a reported £75 million last week and was thrust into the action after Myles Lewis‑Skelly opened the scoring for the Gunners.

Lewis‑Skelly’s goal, a quick tap‑in after a wayward pass from Jean Butez, was levelled by Martin Baturina before the break. The young midfielder celebrated with a heart gesture, hinting at his growing popularity among the Arsenal faithful.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the newcomer, saying:

He only had three training sessions, but he looked good. He was really pushing to play some minutes today.

Arteta added that the player seemed eager to connect with the fans and that the early impression bodes well for the squad’s cohesion.

After the break, Kepa Arrizabalaga kept Como in the game, but Baturina’s strike forced a penalty shoot‑out. New signing Christos Tzolis sealed the win, converting the decisive spot‑kick as Arsenal triumphed 4‑3 on penalties.

Why the debut matters

Guimaraes is Arsenal’s most expensive acquisition of the transfer window, and his immediate involvement signals a shift in the club’s attacking options. The midfielder’s arrival also comes amid speculation about the future of other young talents, such as Lewis‑Skelly, who has been linked with a possible move away.

Looking ahead to the Community Shield

Midfielder Mikel Merino used the club’s social channels to stress the importance of the upcoming Community Shield against Manchester City, describing it as “another final” where the team wants to bring joy to supporters.

Arteta also rested several World Cup returnees, including Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, while giving early minutes to newcomers Eberechi Eze, David Raya and Noni Madueke. The line‑up suggests a blend of fresh faces and seasoned internationals as Arsenal prepares for the start of the Premier League campaign.

With the friendly ending in a shoot‑out victory, Arsenal will now turn their focus to the high‑profile curtain‑raiser on Sunday, hoping the new signing can translate his promising start into a decisive impact against City.