Arsenal continued their impressive form, moving five points clear at the top of the Premier League table with a comfortable 3-0 win against Fulham. In contrast, Manchester United’s title hopes suffered another blow after being held to a goalless draw at home to Southampton, despite the visitors being reduced to 10 men.
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Arsenal’s victory was built on a solid first-half performance, with goals from Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard. All three goals were set up by Leandro Trossard, who was in impressive form and could have scored himself. Arsenal’s victory was their fifth consecutive league win, with the north London club showing the consistency and composure that is required to mount a title challenge. With 11 league games left, Arsenal has the title in their sights, and their form away from home has been particularly impressive this season, with 11 victories from 14 away matches.
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Speaking after the game, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his delight with the victory, saying, “We scored beautiful goals. I’m delighted to win away from home, especially with a clean sheet. It’s great to see the goals distributed through the team. Leandro laid on three assists and could also have scored too.” The win was made all the more special with the return of Gabriel Jesus, who made his first appearance since injuring his knee at last year’s World Cup.
Meanwhile, Manchester United was held to a goalless draw against bottom-of-the-table Southampton at Old Trafford. The game was heavily influenced by the sending off of Casemiro, who received his second red card in eight appearances, leaving United with a man advantage for over an hour. Despite this, United was unable to break down a resolute Southampton defence, and manager Erik ten Hag criticised their performance. He claimed that Casemiro’s absence was not the issue and that the game was influenced by the referee.
In other Premier League games, Newcastle moved into fifth place with a 2-1 win against Wolves, with goals from Alexander Isak and Miguel Almiron. West Ham, meanwhile, was booed off after a lacklustre performance against Aston Villa, despite managing to draw 1-1.
Overall, Arsenal’s victory was the standout performance of the weekend, with the team showing the consistency and quality required to mount a title challenge. Manchester United, on the other hand, will need to improve if they are to keep their slim hopes of winning the league alive.
