The £75m signing of Bruno Guimarães has attracted the most attention from Arsenal fans.
But at this rate, Christos Tzolis could well challenge him for Arsenal’s best summer signing.
Coventry's defence looked nervous against the Greek winger, struggling to cope with his incisive runs.
After failing to establish himself at Norwich four years ago, Tzolis has far exceeded external expectations and now arrives in North London from Club Brugge.
He contributed to six goals in six pre-season games. Now that the season has started, judging by Friday night’s performance, he appears ready to compete at the highest level of English football.
After several attacking runs, he once again actively pressed his opponents.


This directly led to Arsenal’s first goal. Tzolis anticipated well, dispossessed Milan van Ewijk and passed to Ricardo Calafiori, who assisted Kai Havertz for the finish.
And that wasn’t all. Eight minutes later, goalkeeper Carl Rushworth parried Tzolis’s cross, and Saka followed up to score.
What’s most promising is that he didn’t fade after his burst of brilliant play, as many forwards do. He remained active and eager to make an impact. Tzolis ultimately didn’t score, but his attacking intent was evident.
His willingness to drive forward and create chances was particularly striking, winning over the fans. When he was substituted in the second half, he received a warm round of applause from the entire stadium.
Fans have already begun comparing him to Alexis Sanchez. It is too early to draw conclusions, but there are indeed similarities between the two.
A direct style, a low centre of gravity, and a relentless drive forward, even when challenged, are their shared characteristics.
It was this combination that made Sánchez so dangerous. If Tzolis can maintain this style of play, the left flank could become his, as Arsenal currently lacks a marquee player on that side.
The comparison goes beyond their shared Arsenal No. 17 shirt; Tzolis has also openly expressed his admiration for Sanchez in the past.

Tzolis said: "I actually know that he (Alexis) wore the number 17 shirt. I've watched a lot of football, and he was a very good player for Arsenal, especially on the left wing."
"He was one of the players I admired most when I was younger. I do see some similarities between us."

What truly stands out, however, is his decisiveness in the final third.
Once Tzolis reaches this area, he often quickly makes the right passing or dribbling decision without hesitating excessively on the ball.
This contrasts with Gabriel Martinelli’s approach, as he often takes longer to decide on his next move.
Martinelli is his direct competitor but was once again left out of the squad, having also been omitted from the Community Shield clash with Man City.
Eberechi Eze is another option in this position, and there could be competition between the Englishman and Eze. For now, however, Tzolis holds the starting spot.
Regarding Martinelli, his omission is concerning.
Arsenal have been open to the Brazilian’s departure since last summer and are willing to sell if the right offer arrives.
Galatasaray are currently interested in him, but Martinelli does not want to leave. It remains to be seen what offers will emerge during the final week of the transfer window, with the player edging closer to the exit.
However, the opportunity has arrived for Tzolis.
If he can maintain his Friday night form against Coventry, Arsenal’s acquisition will look like a considerable bargain.
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Arsenal
Montreal Impact
Alexis Sánchez
Christos Tzolis
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