Arsenal Suffer First Pre-Season Loss to Real Betis

Arsenal's pre-season campaign suffered a setback as they lost 3-1 to Real Betis in Dublin, with Mikel Arteta's side struggling to find their rhythm. The Gunners were beaten by a LaLiga side for the first time this pre-season, with Kepa Arrizabalaga's error allowing Real Betis to open the scoring.

What Happened?

The match got off to a disastrous start for Arsenal as Kepa Arrizabalaga failed to claim a corner, allowing Rodrigo Riquelme to score at the back post. Nelson Deossa added a stunning second from long range, leaving Arsenal's defense in shambles. Despite pulling one back through Piero Hincapie's headed goal, Betis restored their two-goal lead when Pablo Fornals found the bottom corner following a misplaced pass by Kai Havertz.

Why It Matters for Arsenal

The defeat comes as Arsenal continue to push for new signings in the transfer market, with the club having agreed a £75m fee with Newcastle for Bruno Guimaraes. The Gunners are still without several key players, including Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and others involved at the World Cup. Mikel Arteta's side will need to regroup and refocus ahead of their next fixture against Manchester United.

What Comes Next?

Arsenal will look to bounce back from this defeat as they prepare to face Manchester United at home on December 19. The Gunners are currently 7 points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table, with a recent form of 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first). They will need to find their rhythm and consistency if they are to maintain their lead at the top of the table.

Lead at the Top

Arsenal are 7 points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table, with a recent form of 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first). They will need to maintain their lead and consistency if they are to win the title.

League Standing

League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet underway): 1st in Premier League, 85 pts, 26W-7D-5L from 38 games, recent form WWWWW.

Goals This Season

Goals this season: 71 scored, 27 conceded (+44 goal difference).

Lead at the Top

Lead at the top: 7 points clear of Manchester City.

Last Result

Last result: Crystal Palace 1-2 Arsenal (2026-05-24).

Recent Form

Recent form (last 5): 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first); on a 5-game winning run.

Next Fixture

Next fixture: vs Manchester United (at home, 2026-12-19) (3rd in the table).

Currently Sidelined

Currently sidelined: Ben White.