Arsenal have announced that Nicklas Bendtner will return to the Emirates Stadium this summer (sort of) in news which is sure to delight supporters across the globe.
The Danish striker made over 100 league appearances, scoring 24 goals, during a nine-year stint with the Gunners and will get a reception of sorts this summer, when he returns with Wolfsburg to play in the prestigious Emirates Cup.
That’s right, you can stop throwing things around- Bendtner isn’t joining us again. Instead, Arsenal have announced this years attendees for their annual pre-season tournament at the Emirates stadium, which has boasted big names and players in the past.
Bundesliga runners-up Wolfsburg will be joined by their equals in Ligue 1, through runners-up Lyon, and Arsenal will meet the two sides on July 25th and 26th respectively.
The final side in the tournament is Spanish outfit Villarreal, who Arsenal will not play against, but each side will play two games at the Emirates Stadium over consecutive days.
If all goes well, Arsenal will have pinched Alexandre Lacazette, Nabil Fekir and Kevin De Bruyne by then and can rub salt in the wounds of their opponents. Or, use it as a nice venue to seal the deal. Either way is fine by us!
Speaking at the announcement, Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis said:
“We are delighted to be able to confirm three leading European club teams for this year’s Emirates Cup,”
“Lyon, Villarreal and Wolfsburg have some fantastic players and will all contribute to an entertaining weekend of football for our supporters.”
“Lyon and Wolfsburg will also provide a good competitive challenge for our players as they prepare for the new season.”
“Emirates have sponsored this tournament since 2007 and we thank them again for their long-standing commitment to Arsenal Football Club, and their support in helping to make this a great weekend of football each year.”