The 2013/14 European football season is drawing nearer. Clubsides are currently preparing intensively for what promises to be an exciting football season. English giants Manchester United and Arsenal have been in Asia for tune-up matches.

Man. United, with David Moyes making his bow as manager, surprisingly lost 0-1 against Singha All stars in Thailand. It was the first time in decades that United lost their first pre-season match.

Arsenal recorded an impressive 7-0 win against Indonesia. A flurry of six second half goals followed Theo Walcott’s first half opener. Striker Olivier Giroud got a brace, while Nigerian Chuba Akpom, Lukas Podolski, Olson and Thomas Eisfield were also on the score sheet for the Gunners in front of a crowded stadium of Indonesian Arsenal fans.

At the Oheniso viewing centre in Benin City where this reporter monitored the friendlies, fans of Man. United and Arsenal came out in large numbers to see how their darling teams are shaping up for the new season.

There was a vocal section of Man. United fans who were highly critical of new manager, Moyes, accusing him of not being active enough in the transfer market, and expressing fears that he cannot survive the high demands of managing United.

Efe Ovedje, a United fan, lamented: “It is surely not a good sign to lose your first game as coach of a team. There is need to fortify the team, unfortunately I don’t think Moyes is doing enough to attract top players.”

There are however some Man. United fans who feel there is no negative significance in losing to Singha All Stars. One Uyi said: “It is still early days. The players are just coming back from holidays. There were many rusty legs. I am sure we will be ready for the start of the season.”

Arsenal fans at the viewing centre ironically were expressing worry as the goals rained against Indonesia. An Arsenal supporter, Ayo, screamed: “This (the goals scored) will not make Arsene Wenger sign any more new attackers.”

Other Arsenal fans, frustrated at the non-announcement yet of new signings, echoed Ayo’s sentiment.

•Photo: Arsenal players leaving the pitch after demolishing Indonesia. Fans remain worried despite their pre-season killer form.

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