Arsenal will welcome back the majority of their squad this weekend ahead of their first preseason trip to Germany, football.london understands. London Colney saw the return of several senior stars for the preseason earlier in the week.
The likes of new signing Kai Havertz, coveted striker Folarin Balogun and England hat-trick hero Bukayo Saka were all among others granted extended holiday having taken part in the June international matches for their respective nations.
Havertz was pictured doing some personal training ahead of his introduction to his new teammates after a switch to north London from Chelsea. Saka too posted to his socials that he had been completing some preparation for the big pre-season push.
Balogun helped the USMNT win the CONCACAF Nations League, scoring in the final against Canada. He is expected to seek clarity on the next step of his career and spoke publicly after picking up his winner’s medal to confirm he would not leave on loan again.
“What I can say is that I definitely won’t go on loan again,” Balogun said. “I’m not sure (about) the discussions that are going to take place, I’m not sure what’s going to happen.
Balogun's US team-mate Matt Turner remains with his national side taking part in the Gold Cup. The USMNT play Canada on Monday in the quarter-final and therefore he is expected to miss the trip to Germany to face Nurnberg on Thursday, July 13.
READ MORE: Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Declan Rice hint, Jurrien Timber plan, Thomas Partey stance
Emile Smith Rowe is also still on international duty with England’s under-21s who reached the final of the European Championships where they will face Spain on Saturday, July 8.. Smith Rowe, therefore, is expected to be granted an extended break before linking up with the squad.
Mikel Arteta though has already had a chance to work with several of his senior stars. The Brazilian quartet of Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Martinelli and Marquinhos are already being put through their paces.
Takehiro Tomiyasu and William Saliba look to have overcome fitness concerns to take part in light ball work. Ben White and Rob Holding were reunited along with Cedric Soares, Sambi Lokonga, Eddie Nketiah and Leandro Trossard.
