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Arteta surely asking for trouble if Hector Bellerin starts for Arsenal at Brentford
Arsenal fans probably would have taken an opening day trip to face one of the newly-promoted sides ahead of the fixture list announcement.
But an away game against Brentford is an intriguing prospect for the Gunners.
Thomas Frank’s men have such a clear identity that they could well emulate those who have thrived in their first year up from the Championship in recent seasons.
On paper, it is a game Arsenal should win. However, the Bees certainly have the ability to spring a surprise.
Mikel Arteta will not be taking them lightly. And it does appear that he may have already provided a very strong clue regarding the lineup he may pick.
Team selection for NLD surely hints at team Arteta will pick for Arsenal season opener
The Gunners rounded off their pre-season with a friendly with Spurs at the weekend. It proved to be a disappointing result for Arteta’s men.
What was interesting is that Arteta could have hardly picked a stronger side.
Of course, there are some players working their way back to full fitness and sharpness.
But it did look like a lineup that Arteta could definitely opt for at the Brentford Community Stadium.
And perhaps, that may be a concern in one particular position.
Hector Bellerin struggles to stake claim after difficult season
It had appeared for much of the summer that Arsenal would sign a new right-back.
Hector Bellerin was poor last season. And reports earlier in the window claimed that he had told the Gunners he hoped to leave.
However, the Spaniard – – currently remains in North London. And it was the 26-year-old who started at right-back against Spurs.
But he struggled against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side. It was arguably a reminder as to why Calum Chambers was being lauded by many as last season concluded.
Chambers won many over with some impressive displays. His crossing ability, in particular, was outrageous at times.
With Brentford boasting a number of clever attacking players, someone with Chambers’s discipline and centre-back instincts would surely be the smart choice for Arteta.
With Arsenal’s summer window not going completely to plan, Arteta will probably not enjoy the luxury of seeing the discontent amongst fans evaporate entirely.
That puts additional pressure on their start to the season and the decisions he makes.
Surely, picking Bellerin amid his poor form and all of the doubts over his future would be asking for trouble.