Arteta hopes Guimaraes' long‑range spark will cure Arsenal’s shooting woes

Mikel Arteta believes Bruno Guimaraes can end the Gunners’ puzzling reluctance to shoot from distance after the Brazilian struck the winner in a 2‑1 triumph over Leeds at the Emirates on Saturday. The midfielder, who also opened the scoring against Sunderland last month, arrived from Newcastle in the summer for a reported £75 million.

Cascarino explained that Guimaraes did not start the Leeds game because he had been on international duty with Brazil. He added that the midfielder had travelled to several countries and that Arteta chose to keep him on the bench to manage his workload. Arteta felt he had to hold him back for that match.

Match‑day impact

James Justin gave the Yorkshire side a shock lead in north London. Riccardo Calafiori levelled before Guimaraes, who had come off the bench, fired a winner from just outside the penalty area. The winner gave Arsenal the victory. The strike, though not as spectacular as his long‑range effort against Sunderland, demonstrated his willingness to shoot from range.

Timber happy to return as Arsenal record Calafiori and Guimaraes goals

Why Arsenal need a long‑range threat

Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino said Arsenal’s midfielders were unusually wary of shooting from outside the 18‑yard box against Leeds. He noted that players such as Declan Rice, Myles Lewis‑Skelly and Martin Odegaard repeatedly passed the ball instead of taking chances. Cascarino added that Guimaraes possesses a couple of goals from outside the box and the swagger to inspire teammates. Cascarino called the team’s hesitation ‘liquid football’.

Arteta’s standards and Guimaraes’ response

Mikel Arteta reminded the squad that the £75 million signing had not reached his level in the 3‑0 defeat to Brighton. He insisted every player must deliver the required standard every minute of every game. He added that he would also demand that level of performance from himself. Bruno Guimaraes later admitted he was anxious on the bench and delighted to score, saying the three points were a “very good feeling” after the Brighton loss.

Since arriving, Guimaraes has quickly become a fan favourite at the Emirates. Cascarino praised his tenacity and confidence, claiming he lifts those around him. Arteta’s demand for consistency suggests the Brazilian will be expected to contribute regularly. Guimaraes said, “I couldn’t wait to go to the pitch today, and I was very anxious on the bench.”