Published: 1 August, 2013
by STEVE BARNETT

THE new season is within touching distance and for Arsenal fans a chance to win silverware will be centre stage this weekend.

The Emirates Cup will see the Gunners host Serie A side Napoli, Portuguese giants FC Porto and Turkish champions Galatasaray in what has become a staple of the club’s pre-season.

Last year the competition was cancelled because of the London Olympics, but now the two-day tournament is back – and Jack Wilshere says the Arsenal squad cannot wait for the big kick-off.

“We missed the tournament last year,” he told Arsenal.com.

“It seemed like something was missing from pre-season.

“It’s a good cup and the fans love it. It’s a chance to lift a trophy, too, and there are always good teams there.
“You get that good block of pre-season in and you build your fitness up.

“We’ve got Napoli and Galatasaray this year so it’s going to be a test. That’s when you really up your fitness.” A familiar face will line up against his former team-mates on Sunday when Arsenal bring a close to the competition against Galatasaray.

Defender Emmanuel Eboue had what can only be described as a mixed relationship with the Gunners’ fans but, love him or hate him, his passion for the club stands strong.

“I am so excited,” he said.

“I was on holiday when I first found out – one of my friends called me and said, ‘Manu, you know you’re going to play in the Emirates Cup against Arsenal?’.

“I couldn’t believe it.

“I can’t wait to see my old team-mates, the staff and – of course – the fans.

“They all did so many good things for me and it’s going to be a brilliant experience.

“I always want to hear news from the club because I am a big supporter of them.

“I’m a Galatasaray player now, but I am still in love with Arsenal.”