Rice and Saka Lead Arsenal to Composed Win Over West Ham | OneFootball

Arsenal Rise Above West Ham In Composed Display

Rice Leads By Example

Declan Rice chose the perfect moment to strike his first goal of the campaign, arriving late into the box to sweep home after Eberechi Eze’s effort had been parried by Alphonse Areola. It was a reminder of why his old employers at West Ham were reluctant to let him go. His evolution from deep-lying midfielder to an all-action presence further forward continues to pay dividends for Mikel Arteta.

The Arsenal manager marked his 300th game in charge with a bold midfield configuration. Rice, Martin Odegaard and Eze were selected together in an attacking trio, a sign of intent after an impressive summer spend of £250 million. Odegaard’s early injury was an unwelcome disruption, yet the introduction of Martin Zubimendi only reinforced Arsenal’s grip. Two incisive forward passes from the substitute paved the way for both goals.

Saka Reaches Milestone In Style

West Ham rarely escaped their own half for long periods. Whenever they ventured forward, efforts from Niclas Fullkrug and Lucas Paqueta came without conviction. Arsenal kept their composure and waited for their moment to secure the result.

That came after the interval when Jurrien Timber was tripped by El Hadji Malick Diouf, gifting Bukayo Saka the opportunity to make his 200th Premier League appearance memorable. He placed the penalty firmly into the corner, moving his tally to 55 goals and 45 assists, a remarkable return for someone still just 24.

Squad Depth Proving Crucial

Arteta has faced claims of caution in years gone by, yet this Arsenal side now carries a clear attacking mentality. Riccardo Calafiori was encouraged to drift inside alongside Rice, allowing Eze and Odegaard to operate closer to goal. Even as changes were enforced, the system retained its fluidity.

Late cameos from Ethan Nwaneri and Mikel Merino only underlined the growing depth within the squad. Arsenal now sit at the top of the Premier League table, ahead of Liverpool’s meeting with Chelsea.

West Ham Showing Early Progress

Nuno Espirito Santo remains without a win in his opening two fixtures, but there were encouraging moments. His West Ham team lined up in a structured 4-2-3-1, with constant instructions from the touchline signalling a manager eager to shape his vision quickly.

They have beaten Arsenal on their last two trips to north London, although this always represented a sizeable challenge. Outclassed eventually, yes, but not out of ideas. With more time on the training ground, Nuno’s side looks capable of climbing steadily through the table.