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Arsenal boss Unai Emery gives verdict on Matteo Guendouzi after Man City struggle
ARSENAL boss Unai Emery has defended Matteo Guendouzi after the young midfielder gave a mixed performance against Manchester City.
Guendouzi, a £8million signing from French side Lorient, was handed a surprise Premier League debut against the reigning champions City.
The 19-year-old became the 27th French player to play for Arsenal in the Premier League; no club has seen more French players in the competition.
However, against the class of City, Guendouzi was given a harsh lesson in top level football.
The teenager had a couple of difficult moments but also looked bright on the ball at times.
And Emery says there is more to come from Guendouzi.
He said: "It's his first match here in the Premier League.
“He has personality and quality and if he is on the pitch he is improving very quickly.”
After a poor atmosphere at the Emirates in recent years, it was a sell out for Emery’s first match.
And Emery issued a rallying call to the supporters.
He said: "We wanted to start here with our supporters.
“We wanted to show our performance but it is clear against Manchester City we could not give them this win.
“But I think here we are going to feel very well."