Arteta: We Want to Improve, But Can't Promise

Manager Mikel Arteta insists Arsenal are still actively pursuing new signings in the transfer market, but admits that very few players can truly elevate the team to the next level. The Gunners missed out on Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, who opted to remain in the Spanish capital, and were also beaten by Chelsea in the race for England international Morgan Rogers.

On Saturday, Arsenal announced the transfer of Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United, and he made his debut last night in a 1-1 friendly draw against Italian side Como at the Emirates Stadium. Despite securing the Brazilian midfielder, Arteta's efforts to add more players to the squad continue.

"There are still things we want to do, because every time we have the opportunity to improve the squad and add more quality and depth, we have to do it. We are actively trying to do that. The problem with the market is that it's not just up to you. We know that well. The club's approach, will, and desire are not in question. We want to do it, but we can't promise because it's not solely up to us. I think very few players on the market can allow us to improve our team, but we continue to actively search and we will try," commented the Spanish specialist after the friendly against Como, as reported by Sky Sports.

Mikel Arteta was pleased with Bruno Guimarães' debut, who came on at halftime just four days after arriving in the English capital. This performance puts him in contention for a spot in the squad for Sunday's Community Shield clash against Manchester City.

"Let's see. He's only had three training sessions, but he looked good. He really wanted to play in this game. I think he wanted to make his debut and immediately feel what it's like to play in front of our fans. And you can immediately see the strong connection that will make us better," stated the Arsenal manager.

The Spaniard also addressed the future of Arsenal academy product Myles Lewis-Skelly, who has been linked with a move away from the Emirates and reportedly courted by Chelsea and Manchester United. However, the 19-year-old Englishman scored Arsenal's only goal against Como, after which he made a heart gesture to the home fans.

"It's good to score a goal, you have to be emotional when you do it. He's a very emotional player. I remember the moment he made all those gestures on the pitch last season. I won't talk about any speculation. If there is any, it's a good sign. It means we are attracting attention and doing well. I think he had a very strong pre-season. We asked him to play in a different position – he played more in central midfield because we were missing players in that area who were away with their national teams, and he did very well," Arteta added.