10 things we learned from Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea
Arsenal showed why they are the reigning Premier League champions with a composed comeback victory against Chelsea at the Emirates on Sunday evening.
Morgan Rogers gave the visitors an early lead, but Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard turned the game around to preserve the champions’ perfect start to the season.
Beyond the result, the London derby offered plenty of clues about both teams, from Arsenal’s growing authority to Chelsea’s weaknesses and Xabi Alonso’s first major setback.
10 things we learned from Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea
1. Arsenal play like champions
There was more swagger about Arsenal’s performance against Chelsea than we often saw last season. After conceding inside two minutes, they did not panic, instead taking control and forcing Chelsea deeper. The Gunners finished with 55 per cent possession and nine shots on target, underlining their dominance.
2. Xabi Alonso failed his first real test
Xabi Alonso had enjoyed an impressive beginning at Chelsea, but Arsenal represented his first major examination. It did not end well. Chelsea were lively early on but gradually lost control, and their defensive problems returned. The Blues have now conceded seven goals in their opening three league games, a worrying number for a team with serious ambitions.
3. No surprise in the result
Arsenal’s victory extended their unbeaten run against Chelsea to 12 matches, showing just how much this fixture has tilted in their favour. The Gunners have now won four straight meetings with their London rivals, making this one of the more predictable big-six fixtures in recent years.
4. Emi Martínez left mixed feelings
Emiliano Martínez made several important saves and kept Chelsea alive during Arsenal’s strongest spells. But he will not want to see Havertz’s equaliser again. The former Arsenal goalkeeper allowed the shot inside his near post, although Chelsea’s overall defending also left him exposed. His performance was good without being perfect.
5. Mikel Arteta has grown as a coach
Mikel Arteta’s decision to keep trusting Myles Lewis-Skelly says plenty about his evolution as a manager. The 19-year-old started another major Premier League game despite several experienced midfielders being available. Arteta now appears more willing to trust young players in big matches rather than automatically choosing experience.
6. Chelsea’s attack can be shut out
Rogers’ early goal suggested Chelsea were ready to cause Arsenal serious problems, but the threat faded as the game progressed. Arsenal’s defence became increasingly comfortable dealing with Chelsea’s attacking players. The visitors finished with only five shots on target, compared with Arsenal’s nine.
7. Kai Havertz has grudges with Chelsea
Kai Havertz once again punished his former club. His equaliser was his third Premier League goal against Chelsea since leaving Stamford Bridge, while he also played a key role in Ødegaard’s winner by cleverly leaving Tzolis’ pass for the Arsenal captain. He has now scored three goals in four appearances this season.
8. Chelsea still miss Caicedo
Chelsea’s midfield lacked some of the control Moisés Caicedo normally provides. Reece James and Roméo Lavia struggled to consistently progress the ball as Arsenal increased the pressure. Alonso will certainly welcome Caicedo’s return as Chelsea look to improve their defensive balance.
9. Arsenal’s depth is a different level
Arsenal were far from full strength but still had serious quality available from the bench. Zubimendi, Merino and Gyökeres were introduced during the game, while Guimarães was among the substitutes. That depth could prove crucial when injuries and a congested schedule begin to test Arteta’s squad.
10. It’s just one defeat for Chelsea
Losing to Arsenal at the Emirates is hardly the end of the world, particularly for a Chelsea team still adapting to a new manager. The Blues remain fourth with six points after three games, while Arsenal are joint-top with Manchester City on nine. What matters now is how Alonso responds.
