Arsenal just exploded in attack with a superb performance against Crystal Palace, winning 5-1 at Selhurst Park.
After failing to score in the league for 11 months, injury-prone Brazilian Gabriel Jesus returned to his true potential form by netting two goals within the first 15 minutes.
Jesus opened the score in the sixth minute, then quickly scored a second goal to highlight his clinical finishing. Declan Rice added the fifth goal, so highlighting Arsenal’s attacking ability. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli also helped to shape the scoreline.
Though the outcome was clear-cut, questions surfaced about Bukayo Saka, who was forced off in the 23rd minute with a hamstring injury. Manager Mikel Arteta expressed some serious worry over the degree of the injury when Saka, who had earlier offered an assist, was seen leaving the stadium on crutches.
However, Arsenal showed some vulnerable moments, giving Palace several decent chances, needing some top saves from keeper David Raya.
Sarr was a constant threat for Palace, scoring their only goal and generating several chances to draw attention to areas needing some serious defensive work.
With this epic triumph, Arsenal move to third place in the Premier League closing the gap to leaders Liverpool to three points.
The Gunners’ attacking performance, especially Jesus’s, gives some much-needed hope for the title contest after some frustrating results so far this season. Saka’s possible absence, though, could complicate the crowded fixture calendar ahead.
Arsenal will play Ipswich and Brentford in next few games and will be looking to blow teams like them away.
The squad’s depth will be tested, particularly in case Saka’s injury sidelines him for a potentially long time due to what some are reporting as a serious hamstring injury. To cover the void left by the young winger, Arteta might have to depend on players like Leandro Trossard, who replaced Saka during the game.
Overall, the injury to Bukayo Saka clouds the success even if Arsenal’s strong victory against Crystal Palace highlights our attacking power and improves our league position. I have a good feeling though. If Jesus can stay fit and in form, then the Gunners could go on a serious run to keep the pressure on Liverpool and Chelsea who currently occupy the top 2.
