Arsenal duo of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette missed Arsenal's season-opener against Brentford because they had tested positive for COVID-19, the club announced on Thursday.

The two forwards were conspicuous absentees as Arsenal announced the team to face the Premier League new comers, with the Gunners going on to lose 2-0.

"Auba tested positive for COVID-19 and was unavailable for last Friday's match at Brentford. Auba is now negative on COVID-19 testing, is well and following all protocols for return to play. He will return to training and be assessed prior to Sunday's match," Arsenal said, adding that "Alex is still recovering and will not be available for Sunday's match."

In the build-up to Friday's game, Arsenal manager was tasked to explain the absence of his captain and Lacazette.

He told reporters: "They feel unwell, that's all I can say."