Christos Tzolis could hardly have scripted a better introduction to Arsenal life. The Greek winger delivered two assists as the Gunners swept Manchester City aside 3-0 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, claiming the Community Shield and the first piece of silverware of the new season.

A record-breaking debut

Tzolis, who arrived at Arsenal from Club Brugge in a £34 million deal this summer, wasted no time making his mark. His first contribution came when he nodded the ball back across goal for Kai Havertz to head home Arsenal's second. He then picked out Martin Odegaard to put the result beyond all doubt and complete a dominant display.

Those two assists placed Tzolis in rare company. He became the first player in 30 years to provide two assists in a single Community Shield fixture — a feat last achieved by David Beckham, who set up two goals for Manchester United against Newcastle United in 1996. Tzolis also became the first Arsenal player to register two or more assists on debut since Willian in September 2020.

Arteta full of praise

Manager Mikel Arteta was quick to highlight the quality Tzolis had brought to Arsenal's attacking play, pointing to the winger's composure and intelligence in congested areas of the pitch.