Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta confirmed that several players have returned to full fitness ahead of the club’s trip to Dublin for a friendly against Betis.
Ben White has made significant progress in his physical condition. Summer signing Kai Havertz, along with Christos Tzolis, Max Douman, and Gabriel Jesus, all found the net in Arsenal’s 4-1 victory over Girona in a friendly match. White captained the side in the absence of Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice.
This marked White’s first appearance since suffering a knee injury late last season during the match against West Ham, an injury that sidelined him for the final two Premier League games and the Champions League final.
With Jurriën Timber not yet fully fit and William Saliba likely out until the season starts, White’s involvement will be crucial, particularly at right-back and potentially as cover in central defense.
Victor Djokereš, Kai Havertz, and Piero Incapié were substituted around the 30-minute mark as part of planned changes, while Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli remained on the bench watching the game.
“I am very pleased. In many aspects, we have worked hard this week with a large group of players, including experienced ones and the Brazilians who returned this week, as well as many from our academy. Much of what we wanted to test, especially during the game, was executed brilliantly, and overall I am very satisfied,” said Arsenal’s head coach.
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