1 month ago
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22-year wait over?
©IMAGO
Arsenal climbed to the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over struggling West Ham United on Saturday. Former Hammer Declan Rice came to haunt his former team to open the scoring. Bukayo Saka then stepped up to finish coolly from the penalty spot after El Hadji Malick Diouf had felled Jurriën Timber inside the penalty area. Mikel Arteta's side were comfortable throughout and, despite having multiple attempts to extend the scoreline, the result was all that mattered on what could prove to be a crucial weekend in the top flight.
As title rivals Liverpool face a difficult test against Chelsea, Arteta's men had the early opportunity to ramp up the pressure on Arne Slot's men, who have lost back-to-back games in all competitions under the Dutchman. And the Gunners certainly did their bit, dominating both possession and chances in front of goal. With that London derby victory, Arsenal have moved a point clear at the summit with 16 points after seven matches. Liverpool can reclaim top spot with a win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, but a draw wouldn't be enough as Arsenal's goal difference of +11 is superior to the Reds' of +5.
Their 100 per cent record came to an abrupt end following their shock defeat to high-flying Crystal Palace last week, with ex-Arsenal man Eddie Nketiah grabbing a 97th-minute winner in a 2-1 victory. Palace are the only unbeaten team left in the Premier League and, considering their fine start to the season, they could play a pivotal role in helping decide the title race, although it is still early days. But Arsenal will be enjoying their new status as leaders of the Premier League, even if it is only for a few hours.
The previous time they were first after Gameweek 7 was back in the 2022-23 campaign when they agonisingly finished second to Manchester City. Before that, Arsène Wenger could only guide his side to fourth in 2013/14, having topped the league with a fast start - winning six out of their first seven games. But there are reasons to be encouraged. The last time they lifted the Premier League trophy back in 2003/04, Arsenal were actually second after seven matches before their 'Invincibles' went the entire season unbeaten - a feat that is yet to be repeated in the competition's 33-year history since transitioning from the First Division.
Questions have inevitably been asked about both Arteta and Wenger's failure to add more titles to their trophy cabinets, having been very much in contention to become champions until the last weeks of the season. But there is a school of thought that the north London side have arguably their strongest squad depth this century, with a total squad value of €1.33billion. This win will help push them closer to usurping the likes of Liverpool and City at the top, but with 31 games to go, history suggests there may be a few bumps in the road for Arsenal still to come.
