The Gunners' golden opportunity to lay down a marker
Arsenal got the job done at Old Trafford last weekend, but it was hardly a performance to savour.
Riccardo Calafiori’s goal sealed the points in a firm and necessary win, yet the display left plenty to improve on.
Manchester United created chances, David Raya had to step up, and Arsenal were reliant once again on set-piece strength rather than fluid attacking play.
It was a reminder that this team can grind out results, but also a warning that sharper, more ruthless performances will be required to go the distance this season.
Now comes the home opener against Leeds United, and it already feels like a test of mentality.
Manchester City and Liverpool both won last weekend. They will not let standards drop, and Arsenal cannot afford to either.
Mikel Arteta was clear about the importance of this occasion. ‘It’s always very special. Everybody’s very excited for the first game,’ he said. ‘From the first whistle everybody’s going to be at it, and we’re going to have a good game.’
Supporters at the Emirates will expect more than a result. They will expect a statement.
The trip to Old Trafford was about survival. This one is about setting the tone.
Liverpool await next week, and going into that clash with momentum is crucial.
A convincing home performance now would show that Arsenal are stronger, deeper, and more prepared than in previous seasons.
The challenge, however, is complicated by the loss of Kai Havertz.
Arteta admitted: ‘Unfortunately, that’s not going to be possible for him to play. I would love to have him fresh and available, but the bad scenario is that he can’t play tomorrow.’
That forces a reshuffle in midfield and attack, but it also offers a chance for others to step up.
Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, and new signings such as Viktor Gyokeres will need to provide the authority and creativity Havertz would have offered.
Leeds will come with confidence after their opening-day win, but Arsenal’s record against promoted sides at home is imposing.
The danger is complacency. The opportunity is a statement.
If Arsenal want to truly challenge City and Liverpool again, matches like this cannot just be about three points.
They must be about control, conviction, and laying down a marker that the title race is on from day one.
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