Arsenal will play another friendly match before their first Premier League return match against Manchester City, but the club won’t confirm any details in advance.

Arsenal played a friendly match against Charlton Athletic at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, and it went pretty well, all things considered. At least 23 members of Mikel Arteta’s squad got a run-out, and the team won the match 6-0.

Just as importantly, it didn’t lead to a mass congregation of fans outside the stadium. One or two were in the area whilst going for a run or similar, but there were no crowds, which is a great sign.

All the same, Arsenal wouldn’t confirm the existence of the game until after it happened. Even when everyone knew about it, thanks to Lyle Taylor’s Instagram comment and a few photos of the players arriving.

Football.London report that Arsenal will play one further friendly before their match against Manchester City. However, once again, they won’t reveal any details of the game until after it happens.

The priority is making sure the players and fans remain at a safe distance from each other. For now, keeping supporters in the dark is the easiest way to ensure that.

For the most part, Arsenal actually did a good job of reporting on the behind-closed-doors friendly on Saturday. Whilst previous BCD friendlies have relied entirely on information leaking through connected journalists, this time the club put together a full highlights package.

That’s another way to ensure people stay away. If they can get videos and photos through official club channels, there’s no point trying to turn up for content.

Another good result and avoiding injuries in the next friendly would be the perfect way to lead into the return of match action.