The reserves worked quickly, pressing with intent, but the compact shape was difficult to break.
When they finally managed a switch of play, the wing-backs reacted instantly—one stepping out while the midfield shifted laterally to cover the open space.
Then came the turnovers. As soon as they won possession back, Arsenal's structure flipped like a spring-loaded trap.
The back five expanded, Rice dictated the tempo, and Izan and Ødegaard immediately occupied the spaces between the lines.
It was fluid. Organized. But still not perfect.
Arteta observed, arms crossed, watching for weaknesses. "Again," he ordered, resetting the play.
—————————
The final whistle—well, the final shouted "Stop!" from Arteta—brought the session to an end.
Players bent over, hands on their knees, sweat dripping onto the grass.
Breathing was heavy, the kind that came from an intense, tactical-heavy drill that demanded both physical and mental sharpness.
