In a behind-closed doors friendly at the Sobha Reality Training Centre on Saturday, Arsenal defeated Leyton Orient 2-0, with Emile Smith Rowe emerging as a standout performer. This marked the beginning of Arsenal’s pre-season preparations. The Gunners’ victory was assured by goals from Gabriel Jesus and Smith Rowe.

After halftime, Smith Rowe, who had been substituted, scored three minutes into the game to give Arsenal a two goal advantage. Jesus had opened the scoring in the first half.

Using the game, Mikel Arteta gave several first-team players—Jurrien Timber, Ben White, Thomas Partey, Martin Odegaard, Fabio Vieira, Reiss Nelson, Eddie Nketiah, and Jesus—valuable playing time.

Smith Rowe not only shown his skills but also had the honor of donning the captain’s armband, maybe serving as his final performance in red and white before leaving in the summer. After making just 19 appearances for Arsenal in the previous campaign, the 23-year-old has been strongly linked to a move away from the Emirates Stadium.

According to recent sources, Smith Rowe could be joining Fulham, who have already had an offer of £25 million turned down by Arsenal. There has also been interest from Crystal Palace. Thoughts over Smith Rowe’s future continue despite earlier attempts to sign him from West Ham, Chelsea, and Aston Villa being turned down.

Arsenal has made it clear that they want to keep Smith Rowe, but speculation about his possible departure has grown due to the player’s little playing time in the previous campaign. By doing well in the preseason, Smith Rowe hopes to persuade Arteta to give him more playing time in the coming season.

The Gunners will next embark on their preparations for the upcoming Premier League season with a trip to the United States for a series of friendlies.