No Mercy in North London: Arsenal Crush West Ham

So much for bogey teams. Arsenal showed no mercy as they powered past West Ham in a dominant display that sent a clear message to their title rivals — they’re back and hungrier than ever.

Mikel Arteta’s 300th game in charge turned into a statement performance. On a day when both Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice were forced off with injuries, the Gunners still looked unstoppable, with Rice and Bukayo Saka leading the charge in a 2–0 win that could have been much more.

Rice Strikes Against His Former Club

After back-to-back wins against Newcastle and Olympiakos, Arsenal entered the game flying with confidence. West Ham, under new boss Nuno Espírito Santo, showed early fight, but once Rice struck, there was no way back.

The midfielder — facing his former team — reacted quickest when Alphonse Areola spilled a shot, firing in from close range. The Emirates erupted, while Rice kept his celebration muted, glancing toward the away end that had jeered him earlier.

The goal underlined just how vital Rice has become for Arteta’s side. Calm on the ball, commanding in midfield, and ruthless when needed — he’s the heartbeat of this Arsenal team.

Saka Seals It From the Spot

Arsenal didn’t let up. Saka tormented West Ham’s defence, especially the young Senegalese full-back El Hadji Malick Diouf, who struggled to cope with his pace and precision.

Ødegaard’s knee injury forced an early change, but substitute Martín Zubimendi fit in seamlessly, setting up chances and keeping the tempo high. Viktor Gyökeres went close with a header, and Riccardo Calafiori rattled the post as Arsenal piled on the pressure.

After the break, the Gunners’ energy only grew. Diouf brought down Jurrien Timber inside the box, and Saka confidently converted the penalty to double the lead. That was game over — and another three points in Arsenal’s growing title charge.

Arteta’s Arsenal in Full Flow

West Ham tried to respond with fresh legs, but Arsenal never looked in danger. From start to finish, they controlled every moment — pressing high, attacking in waves, and showing the intensity that defines a true contender.

The win marks Arsenal’s third straight victory and a huge boost heading into the international break. Arteta’s men have banished their old ghosts and look ready to chase down the crown once more.