Arsenal produced a brilliant attacking display in a dominant performance against Postecoglou’s Forest. With a resounding 4-1 win, they underlined just how important the team’s new signings have been. Martin Zubimendi was the star of the match as he scored a brace. With plenty intent to beat his markers, he produced 7 take-ons, more than any other player on the field. Arsenal has had a brutal campaign, playing 70 of 74 matches already lined up. Their hard-fought victory is further proof of their persistence.
The rematch played out amid a stormy season, as Arsenal continued to wrestle with injury woes and lineup changes. Fast forward to 2025 and Declan Rice was suddenly benched for just the second time in his career. Emerging teenage sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly has yet to begin a league match this term. Martin Odegaard left the match with a separate shoulder injury, once again worrying about his fitness going forward.
Zubimendi’s Stellar Performance
Martin Zubimendi’s two goals this winter underscored the importance that the rising star has established over this team. He finished an incredible play with an amazing rifle from the top of the box. The goalkeeper didn’t even have a chance to save it. He scored the second goal by making a smartly timed run into the box. This play was symbolic in further establishing him as the most important link Arsenal’s attacking three have.
It was hard to miss Zubimendi’s performance, as he constantly looked to challenge defenders 1v1, showing off his technical quality and fighting spirit. Mikel Arteta expressed satisfaction with Zubimendi’s contributions, stating, “The standards have raised, we need better players and there’s no secret.” The accolades underscore the burden of expectation on incoming signings and the need for their swift integration into the folds of the squad.
Aside from Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze was another Arsenal full debutant. He rushed down the right wing to provide an assist for Viktor Gyokeres, who finished from close range. Eze’s dynamic presence on the field added an extra layer of creativity to Arsenal’s attacks, a welcome sight for fans and teammates alike.
Tactical Adjustments Amid Injuries
Yet today, Arsenal’s full roster is unavailable to easily replenish those departed. Specifically, Bukayo Saka has been out since the second match of the year. In his absence, Noni Madueke came to town with a solid electric display. He did enough to make a case for a permanent place in the starting 11. His creativity and speed created problems for Forest’s backline all night long. On the whole, this performance painted a very optimistic picture of his contributions to come for the team.
Arsenal thrashed Everton it doesn’t get easier, with injuries still proving problematic. Martin Odegaard’s persistent shoulder problems have led to some worry over the Norwegian’s availability heading into the next few matches. He experienced a devastating injury again on his homecoming game. Now, it remains to be seen how this affects his position among the first 11 in a notoriously deep roster.
That William Saliba was absent due to an injury doesn’t help matters. This opened up an ideal window for Cristhian Mosquera to display his technical prowess defensively. Arteta said that Mosquera performed brilliantly and is in competition with Saliba for a first team spot. Today, the competition for the limited slots in each place is just as fierce. Arteta has demonstrated how much he values depth position-by-position on the field.
Reflections on the Match
Forest boss Ange Postecoglou, frustrated after the loss, recognised the quality Arsenal had. “It’s a disappointing result. Whenever you lose a game of football it’s disappointing. Fair play to them, they’re a very good side, especially here at home,” he remarked. His remarks give a sense of the challenge one faces when going up against a top side like Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Arsenal is opening the season with a bit of a gauntlet. In doing so, they are intentionally fostering team chemistry among the influx of new, key players and bringing them into their tactical framework. Our team continues to make strides in their roster dynamics. To do so, they’re dead set on performing better in their pursuit of glory this campaign.
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