Arsenal took the lead through another Alexandre Lacazette goal, who now has two goals in two games this season. Many thought Arsenal would kick on and score quite a few more but it was not to be.
Lacazette’s goal appeared more beneficial for West Ham than it did for the hosts, as the Hammers were reinvigorated and started to dominate from then on, creating good chances and pressuring the Arsenal defence.
Michail Antonio was back to his best after a tough game last week, scoring on the stroke of half time and it was no less than he or United deserved.
A refreshing mentality
In a game which Arsenal did not necessarily dominate or find much success, the mentality and grit was refreshing to see for the Gunners faithful.
In the past, Arsenal fans would have seen their side crumble and inevitably lose the game. Despite dominating possession, Arteta’s side conceded far more shots and chances to their opponents. At times looking second best and more likely to concede again.
Eddie Nketiah’s late finish was enough to secure victory for Arsenal, but not in a stereotypical ‘Arsenal fashion’.
The gritty performance was not always pretty to watch, conceding pressure and shots without creating much with any substance themselves.
Calling out for creativity
It was a game calling out for Mesut Ozil, a shifty little playmaker who can pick out a pass, or carve out a vital opportunity. However, the German has not been involved in either of the first two games this season and does not seem to be part of Arteta’s plans again - hence the interest in Houssem Aouar, who is fully capable of fitting that role.
Dani Ceballos played the vital pass to assist Nketiah, but not in his usual role under Arteta's system.
The ability to ‘win ugly’ shows a change in Arsenal mentality and spirit. Rather than settling for the point or collapsing under the pressure, the belief that they are able to win a game and grind out a hard-fought victory, and the importance of three points was evident to see in Arteta’s post-match celebrations.
There are still problems in the North London side, a lack of creative midfielder was evident, but more importantly Arteta’s system.
The loss of Kieran Tierney in the warm-up forced Sead Kolasinac into a left sided centre-back role, but the Bosnian did not look comfortable in the postion or on the ball. Something which is imperative for the system to work.