Unai Emery has revealed why he elected to start Petr Cech ahead of Bernd Leno in the 2-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday (via Arsenal.com).
After a summer during which several first-team players were signed by Arsenal, just one of them made the starting lineup on the opening match of the season.
Bernd Leno was perhaps the most surprising omission from the starting lineup after making his move from Bayer Leverkusen.
Petr Cech started in his stead and captained the side but appeared to struggle at times with the Gunners’ buildup play.
Now, Unai Emery has revealed why he elected to start Cech over a goalkeeper who is perhaps better known for his ability on the ball.
“We want the competition between the goalkeepers and also every player in the squad,” Emery said after the match.
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“Despite the position, it is the same opportunity and the same chances for all the goalkeepers.
“We spoke also and Petr Cech, he is doing very well. Today as well, I think he played well also. He has this experience for continuing to defend our goal.
“Also, Leno is starting with us. He is working very well, he played well in pre-season too but he has to wait for his chance to arrive.”
So, it doesn’t seem like we can expect to see Leno in the starting lineup anytime soon. Perhaps the German will act as the club’s cup goalkeeper for his first few months at Arsenal.
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