Report: Arsenal could hand Cedric Soares start at right-back on opening day of season

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is set to spring a surprise on the opening day of the season by handing Cedric Soares a start at right-back.

The Gunners get the new campaign underway on Friday the 13th against Brentford. It’s a tricky game for Arsenal, and one they’ll be expected to win in all honesty.

A number of new signings could make their debuts, including Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga. However, in a surprising turn of events, Arsenal are also set to hand a first XI nod to Cedric at right-back.

Football.London report that Cedric has impressed Mikel Arteta massively over the summer so far. And with Hector Bellerin trying to force a move to Inter Milan, the right-back slot is said to be the Portuguese’s for now.

Cedric came into the team last season, mainly as a makeshift left-back. He did well, too, showing his experience and professionalism.

But the decision to make him first-choice right-back will shock some Arsenal fans.

Deserved chance

Some players are just good professionals and have to be patient. Cedric is one of those and it looks like he’s going to get his rewards.

He’s a good player as well. He was good for Southampton and did his job for Arsenal when needed last season. With Bellerin wanting out, it makes much more sense to play Cedric than the Spaniard.

The 29-year-old will be keen to impress and if he does well, then it could save the Gunners a pretty penny in the market too.