The Emirates saw exactly what nobody wanted to see in the second minute. Chelsea arrived without fear, carrying the energy of a side with a new coach, a major rebuild behind it and a point to prove: last season's league position does not have to define them. The early goal was a cold shower, which made the 2-1 win feel even sweeter.
Chelsea should not be treated as just another opponent. This was a London derby, against a team with quality, ambition and enough talent to punish any hesitation. Arsenal had to respond, and the response came through experience.
Kai Havertz first restored balance. It was not a moment for panic, but for a calm head and the instinct of a player who understands big matches. The German brought Arsenal level, then played a decisive role in the winning goal. When Tzolis sent the ball across the six-yard box, Havertz let it run for Odegaard. The captain stayed cool and finished for 2-1.
That is the kind of moment that shows why this team looks more mature. There was no panic after conceding, no collapse of the plan; Arsenal simply brought the match back under control. It may have been harder than expected, but that has to be said with some perspective against Chelsea. A derby is a derby, and a win is a win.
Still, not everything was perfect, and there is no need to pretend otherwise. Arsenal had more defensive work than in the previous matches. Raya once again showed near the end why he gives the team such confidence. His save when Chelsea pushed for an equaliser was enormous. Even when an opponent breaks through the block, the players know they have a goalkeeper behind them whom they trust. That changes far more than one moment.
It was also clear that the new centre-back from Aston Villa will need a little time to settle in completely. That is normal, especially with the other central defenders injured and new partnerships still learning who steps out, who covers and who takes responsibility in each situation. The good news is that the signing did not look out of place. Quite the opposite: he looks capable of carrying a serious load this season.
Gyokeres' introduction was another talking point. He finally got some minutes, but this was not his night. He looked short of rhythm and several promising counters broke down because of loose control. He should not be written off after one substitute appearance, nor should firm conclusions be made too early. Yet the impression remains: perhaps Arteta has seen something from the start that those of us watching from the outside have not. Whether time on the bench has affected his rhythm or there is another reason he is not fully ready, we do not know. For now, we can only trust the manager's judgement, which looks justified.
Three from three sounds good. Arsenal have started the season properly, and the Emirates once again saw a team capable of responding when it matters. But slowly. The campaign has only just begun, everyone is still finding their rhythm and everyone can play football. The league will be difficult and there will be both better and worse days, so this win should be taken for what it is: three important points, a good sign of character and another reason to enjoy a calmer Sunday evening.
On we go. Come on, boys.
Cover photo: Chensiyuan / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Author: B.