The next morning, London Colney buzzed with intensity as Arsenal players went through their final training session before traveling for the Bournemouth game.
Despite being preseason, the competition for minutes was fierce.
Before hitting the pitch, the squad gathered in the tactics room.
Footage of Bournemouth's pressing triggers and defensive structure played on the screen as Arteta stood at the front, arms crossed.
"They press in waves and react aggressively to turnovers. That means we do not play into their hands.
We build through our midfield, we dictate the tempo, and we control transitions."
The players listened intently. Merino, in his first tactical briefing as an Arsenal player, leaned forward with focus. Izan, seated in front of him, stole a glance back.
"The lineup is set, but everyone should be ready. Some of you will get more minutes than others, but when you step on the pitch, I expect nothing less than full intensity. Understood?"
A collective nod followed.
