MLS All-Stars vs Arsenal: Score, Result, and Highlights as Declan …

Arsenal Dominates MLS All-Stars in Preseason Friendly

Arsenal showcased their Premier League title contender status with a commanding 5-0 victory over the MLS All-Stars in their second preseason friendly of 2023. The Gunners’ new signings, Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber, made their debuts, while Kai Havertz scored his first goal for Arsenal. However, the victory was marred by Leandro Trossard’s injury after a knee-on-knee collision in the second half.

Arsenal‘s Goal-Fest

Arsenal wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Gabriel Jesus scoring a breathtaking chip just five minutes into the match. Trossard extended Arsenal‘s lead with a powerful strike, and Jorginho scored from the penalty spot shortly after the second half began. Substitute Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz added late goals to secure the emphatic victory. Notably, Bukayo Saka was named MVP for his outstanding performance in the first half.

Standout Performances and Future Prospects

Arsenal‘s forward line was instrumental in their victory, not only for their goals but also for their overall play. Trossard played a crucial role as the connector, while Jesus impressed with his goal. Saka was a constant threat in the first half, and Eddie Nketiah displayed electrifying runs at the defense. Folarin Balogun had a quieter spell in the second half but expressed his happiness at being at Arsenal and looking forward to the future.

Despite the attacking success, some players struggled to make an impact. Fabio Vieira, in particular, failed to influence the match, continuing his struggles from last season. However, Martin Odegaard’s performance as a substitute was noteworthy, particularly with his sensational pass to set up Martinelli’s goal.

Tactical Observations and Defensive Concerns

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta experimented with the positions of left-back Jakub Kiwior and left center-back Gabriel, frequently switching their roles depending on possession. This dynamic positioning added fluidity to Arsenal‘s play. However, there were moments of defensive vulnerability, with some careless giveaways in their own half. Fortunately, the MLS All-Stars were unable to capitalize due to their lack of cohesion as a team.

Wayne Rooney Criticizes Referee and Apple’s Role

Following the match, MLS All-Stars coach Wayne Rooney criticized referee Ted Unkel for his performance, particularly for setting an MLS All-Star record with six yellow cards. Rooney also expressed confusion over the removal of his staff, who were replaced by Apple employees. Rooney’s outspoken comments added a touch of drama to the post-match analysis.

MLS All-Star Format Under Scrutiny

The lopsided 5-0 defeat suffered by the MLS All-Stars raises questions about the format of the MLS All-Star Game. With the league now boasting global star Lionel Messi, the loss to Arsenal in a preseason friendly could negatively impact the perception of MLS for new fans. Suggestions have been made to either change the format of the All-Star Game to a matchup against Liga MX All-Stars or replace it with a match showcasing an established MLS club team against a top international side.

Lineups

Arsenal 1st Half (4-3-3, right to left): 1-Ramsdale (GK) — 4-White, 2-Saliba, 6-Gabriel, 15-Kiwior — 21-Vieira, 20-Jorginho, 19-Trossard — 7-Saka, 9-Jesus, 14-Nketiah.

Arsenal 2nd Half (4-3-3, right to left): 31-Hein (GK) — 4-White, 2-Saliba, 6-Gabriel, 15-Kiwior — 8-Odegaard, 20-Jorginho, 29-Havertz — 21-Vieira, 9-Jesus, 19-Trossard (11-Martinelli 56′).

Arsenal 65th min. (4-3-3, right to left): 31-Hein (GK) — 12-Timber, 4-White (32-Trusty 80′), 18-Tomiyasu, 3-Tierney— 8-Odegaard, 41-Rice, 29-Havertz — 27-Marquinhos, 26-Balogun, 11-Martinelli.

MLS All-Stars 1st min. (4-3-3, right to left): 1-Burki (GK) — 24-Hollingshead, 3-Glesnes, 25-Zimmerman, 31-Barreal — 6-Puig, 8-Martinez, 10-Mukhtar — 99-Bouanga, 20-Benteke, 11-Acosta.

MLS All-Stars 33rd min. (4-3-3, right to left): 28-Miller (GK) — 24-Hollingshead, 3-Glesnes, 25-Zimmerman, 31-Barreal — 22-Carles Gil, 5-A. Morris, 23-Almada — 19-Espinoza, 9-Ferreira, 11-Acosta.

MLS All-Stars 46th min. (4-3-3, right to left): 28-Miller (GK) — 17-Gallagher, 21-Miazga, 26-Parker, 47-Tolkin — 22-Carles Gil, 5-A. Morris, 23-Almada — 19-Espinoza, 9-Ferreira, 30-Zelarayan.

MLS All-Stars 68th min. (4-3-3, right to left): 12-Petrovic (GK) — 17-Gallagher, 21-Miazga, 26-Parker, 47-Tolkin — 30-Zelarayan, 29-Choiniere, 16-Herrera — 13-J. Morris, 7-Giakoumakis, 38-Kamara.

Editorial and Advice

Arsenal‘s dominant performance against the MLS All-Stars is undoubtedly a positive sign for the upcoming Premier League season. The attacking players showcased their abilities, scoring five goals and thrilling fans with their flair and creativity. However, it is crucial for Arsenal to address their defensive vulnerabilities and minimize costly giveaways in their own half. Manager Mikel Arteta should continue to experiment with tactical positions to maximize the team’s potential.

As for the MLS All-Star format, it may be time for the league to rethink its structure. While the game provides an opportunity to showcase the talent within MLS, the lopsided result against Arsenal could undermine the league’s reputation, especially with heightened global attention due to the presence of Lionel Messi. A match against the Liga MX All-Stars or the participation of an established MLS club team could offer a more competitive and meaningful showcase for the league.

Overall, this preseason friendly served as a platform for Arsenal to display their strength and potential, while also highlighting areas for improvement. As the Premier League season approaches, it will be crucial for Arsenal to build on their attacking prowess while shoring up their defensive stability. With a well-rounded squad and promising new additions, Arsenal has the potential to compete for the Premier League title.