Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice led Arsenal to a 2–0 win over West Ham United on Saturday, giving manager Mikel Arteta the perfect celebration in his 300th game in charge.
Rice scored the opener against his former club, reacting quickly after Eberechi Eze’s shot was pushed back into his path by West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola. The goal came just after captain Martin Ødegaard was forced off with an injury — the third straight home game he has left early.
Arsenal stayed in control throughout the match, dominating possession and creating most of the chances. Arteta’s bold lineup — featuring Rice, Ødegaard, and Eze in midfield — showed the strength and depth of a team rebuilt after a busy £250 million summer transfer window.
The Gunners doubled their lead in the second half when Jurrien Timber was fouled in the box by El Hadji Malick Diouf. Saka calmly scored from the penalty spot, marking his 200th Premier League appearance with his 55th goal for the club.
The result lifted Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table, moving ahead of Liverpool before their game against Chelsea later in the day.
West Ham, under new manager Nuno Espírito Santo, are still without a win. The Hammers showed some discipline in defence but struggled to create clear chances. Niclas Füllkrug came close from a corner, and Lucas Paquetá fired over the bar, but they could not break through a well-organised Arsenal side.
It was a confident and professional display from the Gunners, who continue to look strong in their push for the Premier League title.
