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Five things we noticed from Arsenal training in Dubai as Pablo Mari settles in
Arsenal are in Dubai working on their fitness ahead of the final months of the campaign.
Arsenal: Players work on shooting whilst in Dubai
Mikel Arteta led his troop through a fun-filled training session on the fourth day of Arsenal’s warm-weather training camp in Dubai. The Gunners must step up their form in they are to book a place in European competition next season.
Arsenal are not back in Premier League action until Sunday when they host Newcastle United.
The Gunners are fine tuning their fitness ahead of a hectic run of fixtures with the Europa League last-32 tie with Olympiakos sandwiching a Premier League clash against Everton.
Arsenal are 10 points behind fourth place so will need a massive improvement in the coming weeks if they are to find a way to qualify for next season’s Champions League or Europa League.
Arteta’s squad took to the practice pitch on Monday for a full day of training - and Express Sport brings you five things we noticed.
Aubameyang’s happy
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang appeared to be on top form in the sun.
Arsenal’s top scorer worked on his finishing ability and heading skills - and was all smiles throughout.
January’s failed move to Barcelona appears to be the last thing on his mind.
Mustafi’s new job
A new job for the German?
Shkodran Mustafi was pictured watching the action from the sidelines, taking snaps with a Nikon camera.
Could the gaffe-prone have found a new calling in life?
Tierney steps up
Kieran Tierney was back in training at the start of the trip and took things up a notch on Monday.
The former Celtic left-back was doing plenty of ball work - and even sported a bright orange bib.
A quick return to full fitness would be a big boost for Arteta.
Mari makes friends
January arrival Pablo Mari appeared to be settling in well with his new team-mates.
He took a break at one point during the session to chat with compatriots Hector Bellerin and Dani Ceballos.
Arteta recently hinted Mari could make his debut against Newcastle on Sunday - could that have been their topic of discussion?
Ljungberg dishes out advice
Freddie Ljungberg’s interim managerial stint is probably filed under ‘Best Forgotten’ but he remains part of Arteta’s coaching staff.
The ‘Invincible’ remains an influential figure - and was on hand to dish out advice.
He was spotted at one point chatting to Bellerin and Ceballos, who will be eager to impress in the coming weeks.