Gabriel Martinelli scores on Arsenal debut

Arsenal got off to a winning start in their pre-season playing against the Colorado Rapids – who are owned by Stan Kroenke, like Arsenal but the Gunners won the match 3-0.

Unai Emery first eleven was filled with youngsters in the match, and several of the kids impressed.

Arsenal have only made one official signing this summer: Gabriel Martinelli.

Gabriel Martinelli, 18, joined the Gunners from Brazilian side Ituano his transfer reportedly cost 6 million pounds.

Martinelli scored the third goal of the game by converting a cross from Dominic Thompson from close range.

Bukayo Saka opened for Arsenal after 13 minutes, while James Olayinka scored in the 29th minute.

Laurent Koscielny?

Prior to Arsenal’s flight to America, the club confirmed that Laurent Koscielny refused to travel who it had been presumed to be angling for a move before the start of the season.

Emery was asked about Koscielny’s future at the club and said:

He started training with us this pre-season and I spoke with him three times for his situation. We wanted him to come with us on this tour but he decided to stay.

Now it is a matter for the club and for the player.

He has one year left on his contract. For me as a coach he’s an important player. Now it’s one matter for him and the club.

The club and him need to speak, they are speaking about his situation. I cannot say more than that.

We spoke with a good spirit for both the team and him but this is his decision, only his decision. He’s speaking only with the club.