Arsenal brought in David Luiz from Chelsea during the final day of the transfer window and everyone was certain that he would immediately be thrown into action.
David Luiz had a pretty good pre-season with the Blues which means he was match-fit and ready to start during Arsenal’s first game of the season vs Newcastle United.
But surprisingly, the manager chose to name the Brazilian on the bench, as Sokratis and Callum Chambers started in central defence for the Gunners at St James’ Park.
And speaking after the 1-0 win over the Magpies, Unai Emery revealed why chose not to use David Luiz.
“I explained yesterday that the circumstances are different,” the manager said.
“David Luiz did pre-season with another team and he is okay to play physically but he only trained completely with us yesterday.
“On Friday he did 30 minutes with us. I was thinking to give them confidence to work together because they were working well together, Sokratis and Chambers.
“I want to have very competitive players in each position, with David Luiz, with [Rob] Holding when he is coming to help us, training regularly and playing minutes.
“He is going to play tomorrow for the Under-23s.
“Also Hector Bellerin is coming back, I think one month more.
“Today we had Sead [Kolasinac] out and Kieran Tierney injured. We want to be strong defensively but above all being an offensive team.”
Next up, Arsenal will take on Burnley FC at home and there is a big chance that the manager could opt for a three-man defence – his most preferred tactic.
And if that happens then David Luiz will most certainly play and both Sokratis and Chambers will be able to keep their places in the starting line-up.
