Mikel Arteta hails new signing’s performance in Community Shield win against Manchester City




Mikel Arteta hailed the performance of new signing Christos Tzolis, who assisted twice in Arsenal’s 3-0 win against Manchester City.The Gunners lifted the Community Shield after a dominant display, with City unable to match the levels on display from Arteta’s side.The Spaniard was full of praise for his side after the game as they got off to an ideal start for the season.”A really good performance. To show the desire we showed and the reaction, I was really impressed.”I told them I really enjoyed watching them play,” he told TNT Sports.Arteta honed in on new signing Tzolis, who impressed in his competitive debut since joining from Club Brugge for £34million.The 24-year-old showed his talent in the game, proving to be a threat as he turned provider twice for the Gunners.Commenting on his new man’s performance, Arteta said: “I think how naturally he has accommodated in the squad.Mikel Arteta hailed his new signing Christos Tzolis’ performance | REUTERS”His level of understanding – he is a player that he make the right decision when a lot of people rushes and make the wrong decisions.”He is very smart and accurate. Today, in tight spaces, he made the right decision twice, and he scored two goals.”Arsenal dominated across the pitch, with a midfield of Martin Odegaard, Bruno Guimaraes and Myles Lewis-Skelly producing a brilliant display.Commenting on his trio, Arteta said: “Very strong. I think we have been adding year after year. Quality combinations. Now we have a lot of leadership.”Tzolis got a couple of assists on his competitive debut | REUTERSRegarding the result, the Spaniard admitted to being “a bit surprised” to cruise to victory in the manner his side did.He said: “We had the pre-season and we had eight to nine players to get tested. To play in the manner we did is extremely impressive.”The Gunners were without Brazilians Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus, amid speculation about their futures at the club following the lineup’s announcement.Arteta appeared to put that matter aside, expressing his disappointment that they were not involved.Arsenal won the Community Shield after taking apart Manchester City | GETTYHe said: “Really sad not to have their availability.”I have been fighting with the Premier League to extend them and to accommodate more players in the squad.”They deserve to be in the squad. Hopefully we can change that rule.”