Guimaraes makes Arsenal debut in draw with Como

Bruno Guimaraes made his Arsenal debut in a 1‑1 friendly draw against Como at the Emirates Stadium. The £75 million signing from Newcastle United was officially announced on Saturday and introduced to the club’s supporters earlier that weekend ahead of a friendly with Dortmund on Sunday. Fans arrived at the stadium on Wednesday evening eager to see the Brazilian international in action, but had to wait until half‑time to witness his first appearance. Myles Lewis‑Skelly, whose future has been the subject of much discussion after reported interest from Chelsea and Manchester United, opened the scoring in the first half. The Gunners were soon pegged back by an impressive attacking move from Martin Baturina before Guimaraes was brought on. As the new number 39 stepped onto the pitch, chants of “Bruno” rang around the crowd, followed by cheers when he recorded his first touch of the ball. Guimaraes, known for his combative, all‑action style, made a timely tackle to thwart a Como counter‑attack before slipping the ball to David Raya; the smooth transition of play was greeted by supporters as if it were a goal. Early in his cameo there were indications of a slight adjustment period between Guimaraes and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. Mikel Arteta fielded an experimental lineup that included five academy graduates. As the match approached the hour mark, he introduced what could be regarded as his strongest available side, with an eye on the upcoming Community Shield clash against Manchester City on Sunday. Guimaraes had been partnered with Lewis‑Skelly in midfield, but when he was withdrawn and Mikel Merino and Odegaard entered from the bench, the summer signing dropped into the deepest‑lying midfield role. The game’s rhythm was affected by the tactical changes and a second‑half drinks break, although Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke and Cristhian Mosquera each had chances before the final whistle. Guimaraes attempted a chipped pass behind the Como defence that Havertz finished, only for the offside flag to be raised. That type of incisive pass, which he tried a couple of times, is likely to give supporters encouragement that he can help the Gunners find their attacking rhythm as the season progresses. While this friendly will not define Guimaraes’ time in north London, the ease with which he settled into the side underscores why Arsenal paid the substantial fee for his services. After the match, a pre‑agreed penalty shootout took place; Guimaraes converted his spot‑kick with confidence, a boost that should serve him well ahead of Arsenal’s first competitive fixture of the season on Sunday.