Following a strong run of form across multiple competitions, Mikel Arteta’s side will be eager to claim all three points against a team that has caused them problems in recent seasons. The Gunners haven’t beaten West Ham in their last three league meetings, but confidence is high after an impressive away victory at Newcastle and a solid midweek performance in the Champions League. A win here would underline Arsenal’s title credentials and continue their excellent start to the campaign.
Form and Context
Arsenal enter the match on the back of three consecutive wins in three different competitions. A routine victory over League One side Port Vale in the Carabao Cup. A gritty away win at Newcastle United in the Premier League And a confident display in the Champions League to make it three wins from three before the international break.
These results have reinforced Arsenal’s consistency and resilience across all fronts. Arteta will be urging his players to maintain momentum, especially in fixtures where they dropped points last season. With West Ham and Crystal Palace among their next three league opponents, these are key opportunities to demonstrate progression and maturity in their title push.
West Ham’s Situation
West Ham arrive in North London under new management, with Nuno Espírito Santo recently replacing Graham Potter. The Portuguese coach began his tenure with a positive 1-1 draw at Everton, showing signs of defensive improvement — something the Hammers have desperately needed after repeated struggles at set pieces.
Nuno’s focus will be on building solidity and discipline, though the challenge at the Emirates will be formidable. West Ham fans will be encouraged by their away form that has gained them three wins and one draw from their last five on the road and will hope that trend continues.
Team News
Arsenal:
Gabriel Magalhães faces a late fitness test after a knock sustained in the Champions League against Olympiakos. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus remain sidelined, while Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze are expected to return to the starting XI after being rested midweek.
West Ham:
Jarrod Bowen, who scored the equaliser against Everton, remains their key attacking threat and will aim to extend his fine run of form. Crysencio Summerville is also being assessed for fitness ahead of the trip to North London.
Key Stats and Insights
Arsenal have lost just four of their last 42 Premier League home games (W29 D9). However, 50% of those defeats have come against West Ham — in December 2023 and February 2025.
West Ham are looking to become only the second side ever to win three consecutive Premier League away games against Arsenal, after Manchester City.
The Hammers have lost more London derbies than any other Premier League side (134) and have been beaten in eight of their last 11 (W2 D1).
Arsenal have won six of their last eight league matches (D1 L1), dropping points only to Liverpool (0–1) and Manchester City (1–1) during that period.
Set-piece strength: Nine of Arsenal’s last 14 league goals have come via set pieces (seven corners, one free-kick, one penalty). Under Arteta, 16.7% of Arsenal’s goals have come from corners — the third-highest ratio among Premier League managers with 300+ goals.
Bukayo Saka could make his 200th Premier League appearance. At 24 years and 29 days, he would be the seventh youngest player to reach that milestone.
Gabriel Magalhães has scored 18 Premier League goals, the most by any defender since his debut in September 2020 — all from set pieces.
Jarrod Bowen has been directly involved in 11 goals in his last 12 Premier League appearances (8 goals, 3 assists), and has scored five career goals against Arsenal, including the winner at the Emirates last season.
Summary
This fixture provides Arsenal with the perfect platform to banish their recent struggles against West Ham and reaffirm their title ambitions. A convincing performance and three points would take them back to the top of the Premier League table — and send a strong message to their rivals.
For West Ham, it’s a chance to build on a new era under Nuno Espírito Santo and prove they can compete with the league’s elite away from home. However, given Arsenal’s set-piece dominance, home record, and momentum, anything less than a win would be a disappointment for the Gunners.
Prediction: Arsenal 2–0 West Ham United
