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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport

Latest Arsenal pictures as Willian makes debut in friendly defeat to Aston Villa

Arsenal stepped up their preparations for the new Premier League campaign as Willian made his debut in a 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday.

The Gunners, who beat QPR 4-3 on Wednesday and London Colney, again shipped three goals as they lost to Villa ahead of Saturday's meeting with Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The behind closed-doors-friendly marked a first run out in Arsenal red for Willian, who joined from Chelsea on a free transfer earlier this summer.

After sealing the move last month, the Brazilian said: “I decided [to join] because Arsenal are one of the biggest clubs in the world. They have a new project with Mikel Arteta,.

“I think this club deserve to shine again and I want to be a part of this project — to be a part of the Arsenal family is amazing. I’m very happy to do that.

“I come to try to win trophies, because this club deserve to win again, and I think you have to do the best as possible to win every game."

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who is yet to sign fresh terms at Emirates Stadium, scored both Arsenal goals as Mikel Arteta took a look at a number of young and experienced squad member over the course of the 90 minutes.

Emirates bow: Willian in action for Arsenal on Saturday (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

A brace from Jacob Ramsey and one from Douglas Luiz sealed victory for Villa.

Scroll through our gallery at the top of the article for the best pictures from Emirates Stadium...

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