Arsenal to hand £75m signing Bruno Guimaraes debut against Como
Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes is expected to make his Arsenal debut against Como on Wednesday following his £75m transfer from Newcastle United.
The highly rated international was officially unveiled to supporters ahead of Sunday’s 3-2 Emirates Cup defeat by Borussia Dortmund.
He watched from the sidelines having only started training at London Colney last week following an extended post-World Cup break.
Manager Mikel Arteta is eager to integrate the former Magpies star into a midfield that is currently depleted.
Arteta anticipates major impact
The Arsenal boss believes his latest addition will instantly elevate the squad’s ambition and overall quality.
“We see very clearly, especially the energy that he brought immediately to the training ground, the hunger, the desire to come here and create a big history at the club.”
The Spaniard expects the dynamic playmaker to provide crucial versatility and a distinct goal threat as the team pushes for major honours.
“He’s a player that is very comfortable putting people through, pulling between the lines, pulling behind, and then he’s a goal threat.”
Managed minutes and midfield shortage
The South American had a limited pre-season after joining Newcastle’s training camp in La Manga merely to bid farewell to his former colleagues.
As a result, his playing time against Italian side Como will likely be restricted to around 30 minutes to carefully manage his match fitness.
This cautious approach mirrors the strategy used for returning squad members Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres earlier this summer.
A brief cameo on Wednesday would serve as vital preparation for Sunday’s Community Shield clash with reigning champions Manchester City.
Premier League opener looms
The Gunners will then begin their Premier League campaign against Coventry City five days later.
Arteta desperately needs his marquee acquisition up to speed after the side struggled for rhythm in recent warm-up fixtures.
Key figures including Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze are only just resuming training this week following their own international exertions.