Arsenal's defence could be the engine of a title charge
After eight matches, Arsenal have conceded only three goals, a run that has vaulted them to the top of the table.
After eight matches, Arsenal have conceded only three goals, a run that has vaulted them to the top of the table.
Nicol’s verdict recasts Arsenal from domestic frontrunners to genuine continental contenders.
Viktor Gyokeres blew the dust off a stubborn goalless streak in spectacular fashion, netting twice as Arsenal dismantled Atlético Madrid 4–0. The relief on his face was plain to see, but what mattered more to Mikel Arteta was the reinforcement of a bigger truth: Gyokeres isn’t just scoring — he is making Arsenal a more dangerous, unpredictable team.
A tidal wave of goals, rapid-fire counterattacks and a string of individual masterclasses turned UEFA Champions League 2025/26, group stage matchday three, Tuesday into a pure spectacle. From Parisian goal carnivals to tidy tactical wrecking balls, the continent’s biggest clubs reminded everyone why midweek European nights are must-watch theatre.
Confident but alert, he balanced encouragement with warning: no complacency, no grand narratives stitched from a few good results.
Signed from West Ham in 2023, Rice began life at the Emirates in the familiar, protective role: break lines, recycle possession, sit deep. A winter training camp in January 2024 changed the script. He was pushed into a box‑to‑box role that unlocked a new side to his game — more forward runs, set‑piece duties and a leap in attacking output.
Atletico trained in the rain at the Emirates on Monday and the squad were unable to have a hot shower on the premises afterwards due to an issue sources at the Spanish club allege went unfixed for over an hour, instead returning to their hotel.
Arsenal captain Odegaard, who was sidelined for two weeks last month due to a shoulder issue, is the club's fourth player currently out of action with a knee injury after Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke.
Matchday revenue reached £132 million in the last financial year, and projections suggest that figure could surpass £150 million post-expansion. Plans also include upgraded VIP lounges, hospitality suites, and retail zones to attract premium clientele.
"I feel at home. We have a good team, we have a good squad, we have good staff. The coach is perfect for me, so it's the best place to be," said Saliba.
Saliba, 24, joined the Gunners from Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne in July 2019 but was loaned back to the French club for the 2019-20 season before having further loan spells in Ligue 1 at Nice and Marseille.
"He still needs a little more time with those guys to understand the timings, especially the things that he needs to do. "Then actions like that will be more consistent and better for us. In general, very good. There is still a lot more to give.
Madueke was seen holding his right knee towards the end of the first half of the game at the Emirates Stadium and was replaced at the break by Bukayo Saka. An update is expected on Tuesday during Mikel Arteta’s next press conference.
At the end of it all, Liverpool extended their lead at the top to five points already with just a few weeks into the season. Will they walk to the title again?
The Ghanaian midfielder pleaded not guilty to five counts of rape and one charge of sexual assault when he appeared at Southwark Crown Court in England, Wednesday.
Arsenal reached the Champions League final in 2006, when they lost to Barcelona, and have not lifted a major trophy since the 2020 FA Cup.
Former Brighton and Coventry striker Gyokeres scored 97 goals in 102 matches during his two seasons in Portugal and helped Sporting lift back-to-back Primeira Liga titles
The Ghana midfielder, 32, left Arsenal at the end of his contract on 30 June and four days later was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault
The Gunners have been looking to add a young defender to their squad to compete with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes who are their two first choice centrebacks. Head coach Mikel Arteta is looking to rotate his squad more often following an injury hit 2024/25 campaign
All parties are working towards the signing being completed in time for Gyokeres to travel with the Gunners to Asia for their pre-season tour at the end of the week
The 22-year-old had been heavily linked with Barca, while German club Bayern Munich and English Premier League side Arsenal were also speculated to be interested in his services, even though there had been reservations over the cost of doing a deal.
Tomiyasu, who joined Arsenal from Bologna in 2021, made 79 appearances for the Gunners.
Kepa is expected to act as back-up to established Arsenal No 1 David Raya.
The 18-year-old's previous deal was due to expire in 2026 but Arsenal have moved quickly to tie him down.
Reports in Germany have stated that Sesko, 21, is on the verge of making a move following interest from Europe's top clubs.
Arsenal, who were their challengers for the bulk of the campaign, will give Arne Slot's side a painful guard of honour on Merseyside.
The Gunners came into the Parc des Princes needing to overturn a 1-0 loss from the home first leg.
The former Chelsea FC and Napoli midfielder has been rumoured to be on his way out of the North London.