Mikel Arteta is already being proactive this summer as he has taken a number of Arsenal players on an early training camp.
Pre-season does not officially begin for some time yet, and players would not normally reconvene for the new campaign before that point.
However, Mikel Arteta is already looking to get a head start on his rivals, and has taken a number of Arsenal players to Marbella to conduct some training.
Whilst details of this trip have not been officially disclosed by the club, The Standard have reported that Fabio Vieira, Eddie Nketiah, Ben White, Reiss Nelson, Jurrien Timber, and Emile Smith Rowe are all now in Marbella with the manager and his training staff.
Club captain Martin Odegaard is due to join the group in the coming days, and will be followed by Gabriel Jesus and Thomas Partey.
Whilst this is a relatively informal venture, as the players will have plenty of time to relax and be with their families whilst in Spain, there could also be some big decisions made whilst the group are over there.
A number of the players currently with Arteta in the coastal city face uncertain futures at the Emirates Stadium.
Eddie Nketiah, Emile Smith Rowe, and Reiss Nelson can fight for Arsenal future in Marbella
As things stand, the Gunners are willing to let Nketiah, Smith Rowe, and Nelson go this summer.
Despite Arsenal being open to offers on the Hale End academy trio, though, all three are currently working at close quarters with the manager and could have an opportunity to change his mind about what they can contribute for the North London club.
If they impress in Marbella, and in the case of Smith Rowe especially, prove their fitness, then the Spanish coach may become more inclined to keep them around into the new season.
Smith Rowe, of the three, is arguably the one with the most to play for, and stands the greatest chance of forcing his way into the manager’s immediate plans.
Is there still a place for Smith Rowe at Arsenal?
Smith Rowe would prefer a move away from Arsenal this summer if he isn’t going to play regularly, despite his love for the club.
However, if Arteta and the 23-year-old can come to an agreement over his proposed game time and place in the pecking order, then the midfielder could yet be persuaded to stay.
The 3-cap England international is a fan-favourite at the Emirates Stadium, and has vast reserves of talent and potential. If he is to resurrect his Arsenal career, though, he needs to immediately show that he is up for that fight, starting with his efforts in Marbella.