- Arsenal’s push for the Premier League title rolled on smoothly on Saturday afternoon, as the Gunners cruised to a comfortable 2-0 victory over a struggling West Ham United side at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite the obvious contrast in form and momentum between the two teams, the hosts might have feared another slip-up against the Hammers, especially after even Graham Potter managed to guide them to victory over the north London side last season.
Fortunately, there was no repeat of that disappointment this time, as goals from Declan Rice — once again tormenting his former club — and Bukayo Saka secured a calm and dominant win for Mikel Arteta’s men.
The England duo continue to be at the heart of everything positive about Arsenal’s play, though a new challenger appears to be quietly staking his claim as the team’s most consistent performer.
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How Saka and Rice Dominated Against West Ham
Speaking before the match, Arteta laughed as he recalled deploying a young Saka at left-back years ago. Saturday marked a significant milestone — the Hale End graduate’s 200th Premier League appearance for the club.
Even as a teenage full-back, Saka’s brilliance was evident, but the current version is a completely different level — unstoppable when in full flow.
After scoring a superb goal against Olympiakos in midweek, the 24-year-old was on target again, confidently scoring from the penalty spot to seal the three points. The winger took responsibility ahead of summer arrival Viktor Gyokeres.
That second-half goal followed Rice’s powerful strike before halftime — the midfielder pouncing on a rebound to score against his former club. It was his 17th goal for Arsenal in just 113 appearances, a notable contrast to the 15 goals he managed in 245 matches for West Ham.
Beyond his goal, Rice’s all-round display was equally impressive. He nearly assisted Gyokeres after a trademark driving run down the left flank.
According to Sofascore, he recorded three key passes — one more than Saka — once again proving how crucial the English pair are to this in-form Arsenal team.
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Arsenal’s Early Player of the Season Contender
While injuries have slightly limited Saka’s impact this season, and Rice’s goal on Saturday was his first of the campaign, neither has quite reached their full potential yet. However, one player has been consistently outstanding — Jurrien Timber.
The Dutch defender, who won the penalty that allowed Saka to score, was a constant presence on the right flank, registering 72 touches and providing one key pass as he looked to influence the attack.
He also played a role in the build-up to Ricardo Calafiori’s goal just before halftime, linking up brilliantly with Saka inside the box. Timber has firmly cemented his place ahead of Ben White at right-back, showing both attacking skill and defensive toughness.
A tireless all-round performer, the Netherlands international once again stood tall defensively — winning eight duels and making six tackles.
A vital part of an Arsenal defence that prides itself on strong defending first, it’s no surprise reports suggest the club plans to extend his contract, having just secured William Saliba’s new deal.
According to Simon Collings of the Evening Standard, who awarded him an 8/10 rating, it was another “top performance” from the £38m signing, who has started all six league matches since the opening-day win over Manchester United.
Podcaster Adam Keys also hailed him, saying Timber has “quietly become one of Arsenal’s most important players.” Based on his consistency and influence, the 23-year-old must surely be among the leading contenders f
or Arsenal’s Player of the Season so far.
