Summary: Arsenal - West Ham 1:3 (Sport1)
It seems that even the World Cup break will not stop Arsenal.
The Gunners provided a statement of intent last night (Monday), when they beat West Ham 1:3 in their first game after the World Cup.
Mikel Arteta's team fell behind, but came out of it with impressive ease thanks to goals from Saccha (52), Martinelli (58) and Ancatea (69), en route to increasing the gap from second-placed Newcastle to 7 points, and from third-placed Manchester City (with a game missing) to 8.
Without the injured Gabriel Jesus, the three strikers scored and illustrated the depth (and character) in Arteta's squad, who in the end crowned Martin Odegaard as the outstanding player.
"He was everywhere, at exactly the right moment. He showed leadership, that's exactly what we want to see from him," said the coach.
There are those who are less impressed.
Arsenal celebrates (Photo: GettyImages, Alex Pantling)
But the highlight of the game was Arsene Wenger's visit to the stands.
The legendary manager came to watch the team up close for the first time since he left it in 2018, and received the respect of kings from the fans who sang him songs at the top of their lungs.
"The players didn't know when Arsene was going to arrive. It made this day even more special," Arteta said with a smile about Wenger's visit.
"Whoever was present at the stadium could feel what everyone thinks of Arsen, and how much respect they have for him. He is a role model for me, and for many."
In the English media it was stated that "Wenger came to watch Arsenal at the best possible time, and saw them make a transformation of a champion", but there are those who think otherwise.
David Moyes, for example.
The West Ham coach said at the end: "Arsenal played excellent football, but do I think they are on their way to winning the championship? I don't think so...".
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world football
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Arsenal
Arsene Wenger