Arsenal have finalised their pre-season schedule, beginning with a match against Girona on August 1 at the Estadi Montilivi, kicking off at 8pm. The Gunners opted for a low-key summer with no tour to Asia or the USA, staying in Europe due to 15 players participating in the World Cup and an earlier season start because of the Community Shield.
After Girona, Arsenal will face Real Betis in Dublin on August 5. The club is close to finalising two home fixtures at the Emirates Stadium, with Borussia Dortmund and Como under consideration. If the friendly against Como is confirmed, it would mark a return to north London for their head coach Cesc Fabregas, a former Arsenal player.
Community Shield and Premier League Start
The home matches will fill the gap before the Community Shield against Manchester City on August 16, which will be held in Cardiff instead of Wembley due to The Weeknd concerts. Arsenal then begin their Premier League title defence at home to Coventry on Friday August 21.
According to the London Standard, Fabregas could be back at the Emirates this season, adding a sentimental element to the pre-season preparations. The squad availability for the early fixtures remains uncertain, with World Cup participants given extra time off after the tournament ends on July 19.
