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Here we are, at a ground that we loathe. A ground that has been unkind to us, in recent times.

The ground where that scoundrel, where that villain, Emiliano Martinez… often has a great game against us, and then badmouths us, immediately after.

Yes, that’s right… we’re at Villa Park. It’s the champions, it’s the HEROES… taking on The Villains.

I did say in my previous blog though, that THIS season is a little different… as Villa have lost Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, Youri Tielemans to Manchester United, and WE took their best defender. Welcome to The Arsenal, Ezri Konsa!!

In addition to all that, it looks as though Ollie Watkins wants to leave.

The Villains are very much, a club in disarray, and we HAVE TO capitalise on that, and take all 3 points.

It seems as though Arteta being compared to Unai Emery, will never end… even though it’s clearly a comparison riddled with futility, as Arteta has been managing for almost 7 years, but Emery has been managing for nearly 22 years.

Arteta should only be compared to managers who have been managing for the same number of years, or… a similar number of years.

This is a basic requirement, for honest, objective, football discussions.

As this comparison continuously rears its ugly head… I’ll point out that Arteta has finished above Emery, time, and time again… and last season, he lifted the Premier League title. Something that Emery has NEVER done. I’ll just leave that there… and let it simmer.

Aaaaaanywhooooo…. Swiftly moving on to the team news.

Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Gabriel and Mosquera, central… and Benny Blanco (Ben White) at right-back.

In midfield… It was Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Martin Odegaard.

The front three was once again… Tzolis on the left, Havertz through the middle, and Bukayo Saka, on the right.

We started the game well enough, and looked confident, but we lacked cohesion in the final third. It looked as though our terrible record at Villa Park, was at the forefront of the players’ minds.

The Villa Park faithful were in full voice… creating a hostile atmosphere, hoping to disarm the Gunners… and for the first 10-15 minutes, it seemed to be working.

We kept playing balls over the top, more than I’ve seen in our game for a while. I had to deduce that this was an instruction from Arteta. We did get the ball though, and start playing… but Villa rudely interrupted our rhythm, with persistent fouling.

Fouling, that the referee didn’t seem to mind… Especially when said fouls were made on Tzolis.

Due to the constant breaks in play, and the lack of cutting edge in our attacking play… the first half became a frustration fest, and ended 0-0.

Aston Villa sat in a low block for most of the half, and we failed to break them down.

Neither team covered themselves in glory, in that first half… and I’m sure both managers will be demanding more from their players.

When the Gunners emerged for the second half, there was a steely determination in their eyes. A refusal to leave this ground empty handed, AGAIN… started to show in our play.

Tzolis was withdrawn at half-time, and was replaced by Eze.

I think Arteta was trying to protect Tzolis, as he seemed to be singled out for particular rough treatment from the Villa backline, in the first half.

I’m sure as the season progresses, Tzolis will adapt to the physicality of this league.

I was pleased to see Eze on that left hand side though, as that’s where he did all of his best work for Crystal Palace, and I know he can be just as devastating for us, on that side.

The Villains continued to sit deep, and we continued gunning for them. We were approaching a stage of the game, where it felt like our breakthrough was coming… and in the 55^th minute, it nearly happened, when the referee awarded a penalty, after Saka was bundled over.

However after a VAR check, the decision was overturned… and a free-kick on the edge of the box, was given instead.

Odegaard took the resulting free-kick, but he put it just wide… after getting it up, and over the wall.

Thankfully, the deadlock was broken not long after that, in the 59th minute… after a lovely Arsenal move.

Eze made a difficult pass to Odegaard, who threaded the ball through to Calafiori… he made space for himself, and cut it back across the box. Bukayo Saka reacted quickest, and slid the ball home. 1-0 to The Arsenal!! It was ruthless, incisive play, from the Gunners.

With Villa now a goal down, they became a little bit more adventurous, and spaces began to open up for us. Unfortunately though, the second goal remained elusive.

Arteta decided he’d seen enough, and changes were made in the 71^st minute.

Bruno Guimaraes replaced the brilliant Myles Lewis-Skelly, who put in another flawless display. He seems to get better, and better, in that midfield area.

Also in the 71^st minute, Odegaard made way for Mikel Merino.

We were in complete control, defending from the front, and Aston Villa had no idea how to break us down. They couldn’t break us down… we wouldn’t allow it. They hadn’t even managed a shot on target.

Mosquera went to ground clutching his hamstring in the 79th minute, forcing the introduction of Ezri Konsa… who looked focused, and seemed unbothered, about playing against his old club.

Hopefully Mosquera’s injury isn’t a long term one. We’ve had more than our fair share of those.

Just to further flex our squad depth muscles, Declan Rice got a rare rest… and was replaced by Martin Zubimendi, in the 85^th minute.

An exceptional performance from Rice, who was absolutely everywhere on the pitch. Snuffing out danger, before it got a chance to even become danger. He’s a duel winning, touch tackling, exquisite passing, lung-busting running, machine.

As the game drew to a close, thoughts turned towards the late goal we conceding here last season, so everyone was on high alert.

As if I wasn’t nervous enough, the referee decided to add 9 minutes of injury time, out of thin air. I have no idea where that time came from… but the ref had been terrible all night, so I guess he fancied continuing the theme.

We should’ve had a penalty in injury time, when Guimaraes was clattered in the box… but the visually impaired referee, wave play-on… much to my disgust.

The Arsenal saw the game out, and picked up their second win of the season. So that’s played two, won two, 6 points collected, 4 goals scored, and no goals conceded.

The Villains, were GUNNED down… and it was particularly satisfying.

Next up, we face cheating Chelsea at the Emirates, in our first London Derby of the season.

Lets give The Blues, the blues… by beating them black and blue.

With the Transfer Window now closed, I’d like to reflect on what I consider to be a good window.

Martinelli was sold for 55-60M, depending on who you listen to… and that’s great profit, as we paid 6M for him.

He was here for 7 years, and is most certainly an honorary Hale End boy… and I wish him all the best.

Gabriel Jesus has gone to Barcelona for 8M, and that’s an excellent move for him, at this stage of his career.

He was magnificent for us, in that first season he joined… and he took us to that next level. Then, he was unfortunately plagued by injuries, and was never the same.

I’m sure he’ll get goals at Barca.

Fabio Vieira has moved to Hamburg for 8M, the club where he was on-loan last season.

He didn’t manage to nail down a regular place in our team, I think he just fell short of the required level.

We brought in Tzolis, Guimaraes, and Konsa.

Tzolis had an excellent pre-season, played well in the Community Shield, and has looked good in the Premier League thus far.

Guimaraes, and Konsa, are already Premier League proven, and are superb additions to our championship winning squad.

Yes we also signed a third choice keeper in Meslier, and some youngsters too… and yes we didn’t get a top left-winger, but I stand by my statement… that we’ve had a good window.

Over the course of the season, I feel I’ll be proved right… but let me know what YOU think.

How do you rate our Transfer Window?

Do you think we should make further signings in January?

Should Eze play on the left permanently?

Let me know in the comments, as usual… and thanks for reading. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

The Premier League is officially back, and we have our first game of the season… our first home game of the season… and the first time we’ll run out at the Emirates, as CHAMPIONS!!

The first champions, of the Emirates era… and this is where our arduous journey begins, as we try to retain the title, and finish first, AGAIN.

We’d be the first Arsenal team to retain the title, since the 1930’s… when we actually won three consecutive league titles, under Herbert Chapman.

The Three-Peat, took place in the 1932-33 season, the 1933-34 season, and then in the 1934-35.

Mainstream football media won’t tell you that, as it doesn’t fit their “They’ve never gone back-to-back” narrative.

Trophies don’t expire, which means achievements don’t expire either… so I’ll never allow them to cheapen what The Arsenal have accomplished, simply because it was a long time ago.

Fast forward to the current day, and we face Frank Lampard’s Coventry City.

Lampard will I’m sure, get a warm reception… him being ex-Chelsa and all. (HAHAHA)

This Coventry team won the Championship last season, so it’ll be champions versus champions.

The Championship is a difficult league to win, so I expect the Sky Blues to arrive at the Emirates confident, and ready to do battle.

A professional approach from The Gunners, is paramount… and as long as we play to our level, we should have too much in our Arsenal for them. (Don’t pardon the pun)

I was really excited to see our first Premier League teamsheet, and the wait is finally over.

Obviously, the best goalkeeper in the world starts, in-between the sticks.(Raya)

Calafiori at left-back, Gabriel and Mosquera, central… and Benny Blanco (Ben White) at right-back.

In midfield… Guimaraes took a knock in the dismantling of Mancheatster City, in the Community Shield… so he was unavailable. Arteta assures us all, that the injury isn’t at all serious.

Declan Rice stepped in, and played alongside Lewis-Skelly, and Odegaard.

The front three was Tzolis on the left, Havertz through the middle, and Bukayo Saka, on the right.

The Arsenal faithful created a raucous atmosphere. The Emirates was rocking, and the players looked ready to roll.

We started the game in dominant fashion, as most expected. We kept possession well, passed, and probed… searching for openings to exploit.

It paid dividends in the 15^th minute, when Tzolis regained possession deep in the Coventry half. He laid it off to Calafiori, who threaded a wonderful pass through a crowd of players… to Kai Havertz in the box, and Havertz stroked the ball home. 1-0 to The Arsenal!!

It was a lovely finish to a silky Arsenal move, and credit must go to Tzolis, because his harrying, high press, and his refusal to let the Coventy right-back Van Ewijk, make a clearance… is what made the chance even possible.

A sigh of relief could be felt around the Emirates stadium, and not because we thought we’d lose this game, but more because there were so many games last season that were A LOT closer than they needed to be, due to NOT taking early chances… and I think this has traumatised us (HAHAH) so the early goal was welcomed, and embraced… like a favourite long lost relative, that has come to visit.

The football was flowing, and there was a calmness, and an assurance, about our play. We looked like champions, who were determined to remind everyone, WE wear the crown, while at the same time… out to give Coventry, a horrible welcome back, to top flight football.

In the 23^rd minute, The Arsenal doubled their lead… after Declan Rice picked up the ball, in the middle of the park, and played a nice one-two with Odegaard… then continued to drive forward.

He passed it to Tzolis, who squared it towards Saka at the back post. The Coventry keeper rudely interrupted the pass, by getting a touch on the ball… but it still spilled into Saka’s path, and he tapped the ball in from close range. 2-0 to The Arsenal!! It was another impressive, sweeping, footballing move… and we were in no mood to let up. Our proverbial foot, remained on Coventry necks.

The first half ended in an exceedingly comfortable 2-0 lead to us, and you’d be a brave person to bet against more Arsenal goals, in the second half.

It only took 4 minutes into the second half, for the Arsenal attacking clouds to form, and darken the Sky Blues.

In the 49^th minute, Rice played a disguised pass through to Odegaard in space… and he laid it off to Saka on the right. The Starboy held the ball up, waiting for Benny Blanco to overlap… then picked him out.

White cut the ball back to Odegaard, who managed to scuff his first time shot… but our skipper is so good, that even when he scuffs a shot, the ball does what it’s told, and it still went in… and it thanked Odegaard, for allowing it to connect with his boot. 3-0 to The Arsenal!! Game well, and truly, over.

With 3 points deep in the bag, Arteta sensibly rang the changes.

Madueke came on for Saka, and Zubimendi replaced Rice and Peas, in the 68th minute.

It’s great to see Saka looking so sharp, and injury free. I predicted in my last two videos, that he, and Odegaard, will be magnificent for us this season… so I wasn’t surprised that they both scored.

Now I don’t want to say that I know what I’m talking about… but… ah, who am I kidding… I KNOW, what I’m talking about!! (HAHAH)

Further changes were made in the 76^th minute, when World Cup winner Merino, replaced Odegaard… and Eze came on for Tzolis.

Christos Tzolis had an excellent game. He’s become an instant fan favourite, because he works hard defensively… and he’s brilliant going forward.

He gives us balance down that left side, and he’s developing the type of understanding with Calafiori, that Saka has with Ben White… and this will be a huge problem for opposing teams to try and solve.

In the 81^st minute, Hincapie replaced Calafiori… who also had an exceptional game.

Aside from his assist on the Havertz goal, his ability to pop up in key areas in the final third, and the unpredictability in his all-round play… makes him invaluable to this Arsenal team. We look better going forward, with him in it… even though he’s a defender.

Myles Lewis-Skelly had another faultless game in the midfield. He’s ignored all the noise, and has let his football do the talking.

What a player this young man is!! He can pass, he can tackle, he can receive the ball in tight spaces, he can go on a surging run, to help relieve pressure on the team… and he can shoot too! His curling dipping shot, from the edge of the box, that was just tipped over by the Coventry keeper… is testament to that.

The full-time whistle blew, and I think Arsenal would’ve been ever so slightly disappointed not to get more goals, and Coventry would’ve felt fortunate to not of conceded more goals.

3 points, 3 goals, and a clean sheet. I’ve got no complaints.

Oh, by the way… that’s 6 goals in our last 2 games, if you include the Community Shield… and all 6 goals came from open play. Not bad for “Set-Piece FC” is it?! Funny how that hasn’t been mentioned by the football media. (HAHAHAH)

We can now look forward to our next victims… I mean match. I meant match, honestly. That was the autocorrect… being correct. I mean… never-mind.

We face Aston Villa next, at Villa Park. A ground where we don’t have a great record. We lost there last season, after conceding a late wonder strike, from Buendia. (I just threw up in my mouth a little)

This season is a little different, as Villa have lost Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, Youri Tielemans to Manchester United, we took their best defender. Welcome to The Arsenal, Ezri Konsa!!

In addition to all that, it looks as though Ollie Watkins wants to leave.

The Villains are very much, a club in disarray, and we HAVE TO capitalise on that, and take all 3 points.

With the transfer window closing in just over a week… who would you like to see us sign next?

Should Max Dowman be starting, over Madueke?

Would you put Konsa straight into the team to Face Villa?

Let me know in the comments, as usual… and thanks for reading. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

The Arsenal are BACK! The Champions are BACK!… and we’ll have to watch our BACK, because the mainstream football media… we’ll be on our BACK, even more than they were last season, now that we’re champions, and they’ve had to throw away the “Bottlers” narrative.

They may have to resort to the truth this season, and actually give balanced, in-depth, informative, football journalism.

I won’t hold my breath, but…. Like a snitch on the Police payroll… time will tell.

Due to the World Cup, multiple players are at different stages of fitness… and though I enjoyed watching 2-3 matches per day, I’d much rather have a fully fit Arsenal squad, for this 26/27 campaign.

The Community Shield is the starter that comes, a week before the Premier League main course… and I’m licking my lips in anticipation, and opening up Arteta’s pots on the stove… to see what he has cooking, for this season.

Our opponents are Mancheatster City (Yes, I still call them that)… but the notable difference, is that for the first time in Arteta’s reign, he won’t be facing Pep Guardiola, in the opposition dugout… and I’m glad. I refuse to pretend otherwise.

All eyes will be on new signings, Christos Tzolis, and Bruno Guimaraes… and I hope they both give Enzo Maresca’s team, a torrid time.

Soooooo, the starting lineup, in our familiar 4-2-3-1 formation… was Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Gabriel and Mosquera central, and Benny Blanco (Ben White) at right-back.

In the midfield it was Myles Lewis-Skelly, with Bruno Guimaraes next to him… handed his first start for The Arsenal, in a competitive game.

Ahead of them it was, Madueke on the right, Odegaard in the 10 role, and Christos Tzolis on the left… who was also starting his first competitive game for us.

Kai Havertz started up front.

Now, considering there was no Jurrien Timber, no Saliba, no Declan Rice, no Bukayo Saka, no Eze, etc… It was an incredibly strong starting lineup, and I was once again reminded of our strength, and depth.

Ethan Nwaneri, Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus, didn’t even make the squad! No wonder the rest of the football world hate us. (HAHAHAH!!)

We started the match at a pace that startled Mancheatster City, and it only took us 24 seconds, to open the scoring.

Lewis-Skelly received the ball in midfield, let the ball run across his body in a tight space, and then he threaded an inch-perfect, reverse pass through to Calafiori… who was bearing down on goal.

Calafiori slotted the ball home calmly, at the keeper’s near post. It was a lovely finish, that complimented the pass from Lewis-Skelly, perfectly. 1-0 to The Arsenal!!

It was a superb start for us, and like a babies toy… CITEH, were rattled.

I wondered how we’d respond to taking such an early lead, and we responded by passing the ball around the City players, with an ease that surprised us.

Our movement was sharp, inventive, and purposeful… which was pleasing, as some of our pre-season matches prior to this one, were somewhat underwhelming.

We were organised, closing down the space quickly, and were continuously catching City on the break. The Arsenal were in complete control.

In the 28^th minute, Tzolis received the ball out on the left, and headed the ball back across goal, towards Kai Havertz.

Havertz headed the ball in from close range, past a calamitous looking Donnarumma… making it 2-0 to The Arsenal!

There was still a lot of football to be played, but the second goal, coupled with how well we were playing… made it feel like the game was over.

The Gunners refused to holster their weaponry, and the Sky Blues continued to be cannon fodder.

City huffed, and puffed, and had half chances… but the first half ended 2-0 to The Arsenal.

The half-time whistle did City a favour, and they received the sound gratefully, and trudged off the pitch downtrodden, and spirits broken. It was wonderful to witness.

The second half began, and we continued where we left off. Still dominant, still in control, and still outclassing, the prolific cheaters.

You know, I cannot believe we’re about to start another new season, without City being punished for their 115 charges.

They’re still operating with impunity, even though other teams have been punished for financial rule breaking.

It’s like the powers that be are hoping we just forget all about it.

The integrity of our beautiful game has been compromised, and the longer Manchester City go unpunished, the more we’ll have to scrutinise, just how “Clean” our game really is.

Anyway, I digress…. I was previously talking about how well we started the second half.

Bruno Guimaraes was replaced by Declan Rice. It was an excellent 45 minute cameo from Bruno, and it was abundantly clear that he’s added another dimension to us both attacking wise, and defensively.

As early as the 48^th minute, we scored again.

Tzolis picked up the ball on the left, squared it to Odegaard, who was in the City box.

Odegaard’s first touch was exquisite, and he created space for himself.

Now, through on goal… and looking to shoot, he sold Donnarumma with a dummy so good… That upon purchase, he was sent to another realm. He sent Donnarumma for refreshments, against his will… and then tapped the ball past his comically placed, helpless figure… to make it 3-0 to The Arsenal!!

What a goal!! A goal letting everyone know that Odegaard is back to his best. It was also a second assist of the game for Tzolis… whose had an excellent pre-season, and so far… he looks quite the player.

With the game won, Arteta made changes.

In the 60^th minute, Saka came on for Madueke, and Hincapie replaced Calafiori.

In the 75^th minute, Gyokeres replaced Havertz, and Zubimendi came on for Lewis-Skelly.

Lewis-Skelly had an excellent game, and I was happy for him, especially as there was a lot of noise leading up to this game… regarding his Arsenal future.

Claims that he was being offered to Manchester United, and Chelsea… which was of course, nonsense.

The fact that he’s still only 19 years old, and was able to put in a performance like that, is credit to him, and his mentality.

Eze replaced Odegaard, in the 84th minute.

Odegaard won ‘Man of the Match’ and rightly so. He was magnificent!!

Hopefully he stays fit, and carries this great form throughout this season… as we’re a much better team, with Odegaard in it.

City created some chances, and David Raya made some key saves. World class saves, that he consistently made for us last season. It seems some are so used to his brilliance now, they fail to mention it… they just take it in their stride.

David Raya has won the Golden Glove award, for the last 3 seasons. He’s one of the best, if not THEE BEST, goalkeeper in the world.

How he’s not the first choice keeper for Spain’s national team, is baffling to me.

Aaaaanywhooooo… as you may of guessed, the match finished 3-0 to The Arsenal.

We didn’t just beat Mancheatster City, we dismantled them… we destroyed them, we obliterated them. We gave them a footballing lesson, and they learned that the Gunners’ school… is in session.

We look ahead now, to our first Premier League game of the season… a home game against newly promoted, Coventry City.

It’s important that we don’t take them lightly, put in a professional performance, and take all 3 points.

I’m sure Mikel Arteta won‘t allow even a hint of complacency, and I don’t think the players will either. They’ll be just as desperate as us fans, to retain the title… something we haven’t managed to do, since the 1930’s.

I’m confident, that’ll change this season.

Who do you think will be our standout performers this season?

Do you think we’ll play more attacking football this season?

Do you think we’ll retain the title?

Let me know in the comments, as usual… and thanks for reading. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

We’re here, our moment has arrived… our flawless Champions League campaign, has led us to this. A chance to make our great season even better… A chance for the players to etch their name into Arsenal’s history once again. A chance for this group of players, to be immortalised… By winning the Champions League, for the first time in the club’s history.

Nobody is giving us a chance against Paris Saint-Germain, who are the current Champions League holders, and are arguably the best team in the world right now, in terms of the attacking football they play.

However, we’re the best team in the world defensively, and we’ll relish the chance to nullify their attack… and become the champions, of champions!!

I have absolutely NO DOUBT, that The Arsenal will approach this game just like any other… with no fear, with meticulous preparation, and with unwavering belief.

In my opinion, the starting 11 will more or less pick itself… but I think there’s a genuine dilemma for Arteta, regarding who will start up front.

Personally, I’d go with Gyokeres over Havertz… simply because Gyokeres is in better form, and I believe he’ll cause the PSG defence more problems, than Havertz will.

I have a feeling Gyokeres will perform magnificently, in this Champions League Final.

Whether Mikel Arteta will see it the same way though, is another story.

Either way, the anticipation of that starting lineup, is exciting.

The starting lineup was Raya in goal, Hincapie at left-back, Gabriel and Saliba central, and Mosquera at right-back.

In the midfield it was Lewis-Skelly, Odegaard, and Rice.

Up front, it was… Trossard on the left, Havertz through the middle, and Saka on the right.

Even though the ticket allocation was supposed to be even for both sets of fans, a sea of red and white, seemed to take over the whole stadium. It was pleasing to Arsenal eyes.

It was a brilliant atmosphere, and it was clear that both teams were going to be up for this game.

We started positively, and had PSG backing off us… and we showed them early on, that we had no fear.

In the 6^th minute, the ball was played through to Kai Havertz down the left side… and through on goal, and from an awkward angle… he smashed the ball into the roof of the net. It was an exceptional finish, and Havertz once again showed that he’s the man for the big occasion. The all important first goal! 1-0 to The Arsenal!!

PSG responded as expected… and began playing their swashbuckling football. Exquisite passing, and high energy movement.

They started to dominate possession, but they didn’t trouble us at the back. We looked comfortable, and PSG seemed to have no answer for our defensive questions.

The longer the half went on, the more it looked like PSG were not going to score.

Half-Time came around quickly, and when the referee blew his whistle… I couldn’t believe a whole half of football had been played. It did mean however, that The Arsenal were just 45 minutes away, from completing a monumental cup double.

I tried not to get ahead of myself, but myself got ahead of me, nonetheless.

The second half started, and time suddenly started moving in slow motion. How dare there be so much time left on the clock?!

Some questionable decision making in the final third, prevented us from doubling our lead, and although PSG continued to probe… our slender lead remained intact.

In the 65^th minute, a clumsy challenge from Mosquera, caused the referee to point to the spot with no hesitation. (We had once again shot ourselves in the proverbial foot).

Dembele scored the resulting penalty, and made it 1-1 (Unfortunately).

In the 66^th minute, Arteta decided to freshen things up.

Timber replaced Mosquera, and Gyokeres came on for Odegaard.

As legs tired, spaces began to open up… and a surging run from Kvaratskhelia in the 77^th minute, ended with his shot hitting the post. (PHEEEEEW!!)

In the 83^rd minute, further changes were made.

Martinelli came on for Trossard, and Madueke replaced Saka.

Some more “Nearly moments” followed, but the match ended 1-1 after normal time. That meant we were heading for Extra Time. The Arsenal players have played A LOT of football this season, and some are still carrying little niggly injuries, so I wasn’t looking forward to Extra Time, to be honest.

The match adopted the exact same pattern, with PSG on the attack, and us defending doggedly, and refusing to be broken down.

The 91^st minute saw more Arsenal changes, when Eze, and Zubimendi, replaced Havertz, and Lewis-Skelly.

In the 102^nd minute of Extra Time, Noni Madueke was brought down in the box… and although it was a BLATANT PENALTY, the referee waved play-on. It was an AWFUL decision.

Both teams seemed to of resigned themselves to the fact that penalties, would be the only way to decide this match. They looked to now just be playing out the Extra Time minutes, safely, and sensibly.

The whistle blew for the end of Extra Time, and with the scoreline still at 1-1, it meant penalties.

My heartrate just sighed, knowing it was about to reach astronomical levels, and not for the first time this season.

Gyokeres, Rice, and Martinelli, all scored their penalties… but sadly, Eze, and Gabriel Magalhaes, missed theirs.

So PSG win back-to-back Champions Leagues… After Ramos, Doue, Hakimi, and Beraldo, all scored their penalties. They only had one miss, and that was by Mendes.

PSG win 4-3 on penalties, and the long wait for a Champions League trophy, continues for The Arsenal. Always a cruel way to lose a match.

Congratulations to PSG.

So, we end the season with the Premier League. The trophy safely tucked away, with our previous 13 title wins. I’m sure the 14^th title, will get on with the others swimmingly. (HAHAHA!)

As I’ve said on numerous occasions previously, the Premier League’s the one that I wanted most, and we won it!! So not even a Champions League Final defeat, can interfere with my happiness. We go again next season, and we’ll be even better!!

Again though, congratulations to the players, to Mikel Arteta, and his backroom staff, on a sensational season… even if they did put my nerves, and my heart, through the ringer… AND, increase my grey hair count, by a thousand fold! (AHAHAH!)

What’s your favourite moment of the season?

What game this season made you realise, we’d be champions?

Who would you like to see us sign in the Summer?

Who’s your player/s of the season?

Let me know in the comments, as usual… and thanks for reading my blogs all season, I appreciate your support! COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

I’m so HAPPY we were crowned champions before a ball was even kicked, in this fixture. The last thing I wanted, was to desperately need a win, on the final day of the season… AWAY to Palace.

Yes, The Gunners often shoot down The Eagles… but birds of prey, ALWAYS have a chance.

Thanks to Mancheatster City crumbling under the pressure against Bournemouth, we can approach this game calmly, happily, and carefree.

Players can be rested, as we STILL have a Champions League final to prepare for.

Credit to Mikel Arteta, his coaching staff, the players, and us fans. It’s been a loooooong… arduous, painful, banter riddled road… but alas… WE DID IT!!!

It’s still surreal at the moment, but seeing the players hold the Premier League trophy aloft, for the first time in 22 YEEEEAAAAARS… will make it official.

The crying from rival fans, has been sweet melodic tones to my ear drums.

The humble pie that the bias ex-pros, and mainstream football media, must now consume, and wash down with sour grapes… is simply dining excellence, and EVERYTHING they all deserve. (HAHAHAH)

No matter how much they moan, no matter how much they hate us, no matter how much they criticise our football, no matter how many false narratives they create… WE’RE THE CHAMPIONS… and there’s NOTHING they can do to change that! It’s absolutely, BEAUTIFUL!!

So anyway, the starting lineup for the final game of the Premier League season, had a lot of changes, as expected.

Kepa Arrizabalaga started in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Hincapie and Norgaard, central… and Mosquera at right-back.

In the midfield, it was Lewis-Skelly, Zubimendi, and Max “The Wonderkid” Dowman. Now the latter, became the youngest ever player, to start a Premier League game.

Another record set, by this incredible young man… who’s kindly taken time out of his GCSE revision, to play for The Arsenal. Amazing stuff Max!!

The frontline was Martinelli on the left, Gabriel Jesus through the middle, and Madueke on the right.

There was a party atmosphere from both sets of fans. The Gunners’ fans still celebrating winning the title, and the Eagles’ were celebrating the fact that they have a Europa Conference League final to play. The Eagles faithful, were also determined to give their manager Oliver Glasner, a joyous farewell… in his final Premier League game, as the Crystal Palace manager.

We started on the front foot, and were playing with a freedom that suggested… now that we’ve reached the summit, all pressure has dissipated. All uncertainty, concern, anxiety, nervousness, and the burden of expectation… had gone. This was a game without consequence… a game that was merely standing in the way, of our trophy lifting ceremony.

Both teams were aware that they have a European Cup Final to navigate, so no players wanted to risk injury… by flying into tackles, and making the game a full-blooded, battle riddled, London Derby.

All of the above, coupled with the warm weather, made the game feel like a pre-season friendly… and this was ok with absolutely everyone.

We created multiple chances, and were in complete control of the game. Gabriel Jesus should’ve had a hat-trick, at the very least. The squandered chances have been somewhat of a theme for us, throughout this season… so final day squandering, seemed fitting.

Thankfully, we could laugh about it… and just when I accepted we’d end the half 0-0… in the 42^nd minute, the ball was passed to Max Dowman… and he flicked the ball beautifully around the corner to Martinelli, who slid the ball to Jesus, and he slotted the ball home. 1-0 to The Arsenal!! A well-deserved lead too, and that’s how the first half finished.

The second half started, and Kai Havertz was introduced for Christian Norgaard, in the 46^th minute.

It took only 2 minutes for Havertz to make an impact.

We earned a corner in the 48^th minute, and the ball was swung in deep to Havertz at the far post. He headed the ball back across goal, and Madueke volleyed the ball in, from just inside the box. A well worked set-piece, and an excellent finish by Noni Madueke. 2-0 to The Arsenal!!

Mikel Merino replaced Max Dowman in the 62^nd minute. The Wonderkid had a good game, and it was another Premier League game of experience, that can be added to his footballing education.

It was good to see Merino back playing, after suffering such a horrendous injury, that kept him out for most of the season.

We took our foot off the gas, and were cruising to victory.

Arteta mindful that some players need minutes in their legs, ahead of the Champions League Final… he made further substitutions.

Eze came on for Gabriel Jesus in the 75^th minute, and Madueke made way for Gyokeres, in the 83^rd minute.

Eze got a brilliant reception from both sets of fans, which was a special moment for him, and his family.

The Eagles suddenly decided to start playing football, and after a good passing move in the 89^th minute… Mateta pulled a goal back. 2-1 now the scoreline.

Pino put the ball in the net a minute later, but it was ruled out for offside.

We managed to see the game out, and it finished 2-1 to The Arsenal. 2-1 to the CHAMPIONS!!

After what felt like an age of waiting, the Premier League trophy was FINALLY brought out, and placed on the podium… as the Arsenal players walked up to collect their winners medals.

All medals were now collected, the players, the manager, and the backroom staff, were now all in position… just about containing their excitement. Our captain, Martin Odegaard took the trophy off the podium… walked towards his teammates, aaaaand lifted it above his head, arms straight, and locked in place.

The roars, cheers, confetti, red smoke, and fireworks… were all released. It was beautiful! The players began to pass the trophy around, and as each player lifted it… there were rapturous cheers, and applause, from the fans. It was wonderful to witness, and something us fans, the players, and the manager… had waited a LOOOOOOOOOOOONG TIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIME for!

With the curtain now closed on the Premier League, thoughts are definitely turning towards the Champions League Final. It’s going to be a tough, tough, game… but nobody wins that competition easily.

I believe we’ll be more confident going into the final, after being crowned Premier League champions. We’ve now proven we can win the “Big” trophies, and the players will have the belief that we can now go on to win the big-eared trophy… and I believe it too!!

What was your favourite thing about the Premier League win, celebrations?

What’s your score prediction for the Champions League Final?

Who would your starting 11 be, in the Champions League Final?

Let me know in the comments as usual. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

Back at The Emirates, and we entertain an already relegated Burnley side. Sometimes, the teams with nothing to play for, are the hardest to beat.

I don’t imagine that being the case tonight though. It’s time to rack up the goal difference!!

I want to see ALL guns blazing!

It’s time to burn away talk of our trophy drought, burn the “Bottlers” narrative, burn the “This manager can’t get this team over the line” rhetoric. Set ablaze to all banter we’ve suffered, over the last few years! It’s time to burn it aaaaaaall down! Let’s burn baby burn… against Burnley, and take a step closer, to the holy grail.

The Arsenal need to approach the game professionally, and embrace the pressure. This is our time, on our ground, in front of our fans… and our rewards, are within touching distance.

A penultimate cup final to navigate, and navigate it… we WILL!

It’s very simple, we win our last 2 games, we’re champions. CHAMPIONS!! A word that just sounds right, in a sentence… with Arsenal.

The starting lineup was Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Gabriel and Saliba central, and Mosquera at right-back.

In the midfield it was Odegaard, Rice, and Eze… and up front, it was… Trossard on the left, Havertz through the middle, and Saka on the right.

Personally, I wanted to see Myles Lewis-Skelly in the midfield again… but Odegaard played well in his cameo against West Ham, and earned a start.

The fans got to the stadium early, and created a great atmosphere to greet the coach… just like they did before the Atletico Madrid game. It was beautiful… and the stage was set, for an emphatic Arsenal win.

The match kicked off to inspiring noise from the home fans. Songs of encouragement, war cries to reinforce bravery within the players. Roars of support, to cement their mental toughness.

We started the match well, and were moving the ball around confidently, and effortlessly. Our movement, and forward passing, was a joy to behold.

Burnley expected this onslaught though, and sat deep in their defensive shape… like many other visiting teams, at the Emirates before them.

They made it difficult, kept space to a minimum, and seemed determined to spoil the Arsenal party.

We were the much better team, which you’d expect from a team at the top, against an already relegated team… however, the 3 points were far from a foregone conclusion.

The Arsenal controlled the game, dominated possession, but the much needed opening goal… still eluded us.

Our fans still sang loudly, but underneath the melodic football chants… an anxious undertone could be heard. There was A LOT riding on this game, and everyone in attendance knew it.

Emotions needed to be managed, in order for us to get the desired result.

We earned a corner in the 37^th minute, that was taken by Bukayo Saka.

He whipped in a great ball, that Kai Havertz rose highest to meet. His head made perfect contact, and he glanced it in. A perfectly timed run, and jump, paid dividends. 1-0 to the Arsenal!! I was really happy for Havertz, as he’s had such an injury plagued season… so scoring such an important goal, must’ve been so satisfying for him.

The celebrations were loud, and long… and the relief could be felt throughout the stadium.

It was a good time to score too, as half-time was near.

The Gunners tried to increase the lead, but were unable to. We went in 1-0 up at the half-time whistle.

When the curtain raised for the second half, there was no change to Burnley’s defensive shape, and the longer the scoreline remained only 1-0, the more the anxiety, and nervousness… intensified.

Nerves were now visible in our play, so the crisp, incisive passing, and intelligent movement… had now abandoned us.

Our defensive solidity was unquestionable, but more was needed from our attackers.

We had some nearly moments, but all it did was add to the frustration, and increase heart rates.

I have no idea why my beloved Arsenal, would take pleasure in playing with my health in this way.

In the 73^rd minute, Arteta decided that he’d seen enough, and changes were made.

Lewis-Skelly replaced Eze, Gyokeres came on for Havertz, and Calafiori made way for Hincapie.

Burnley though, were still reluctant to commit players forward, so space was still non-existent, the crowd were still anxious, and the players were still nervous.

All that matters is the result, the manner in which we perform, can go on the backburner. We’re at the business end of the season, and us doing the business… is paramount.

What looked to be a wonderful footballing spectacle in the first half, turned into an ugly scrap in the trenches, in the second half.

Breaks in play, deliberate fouls, sloppy passing, and nearly moments… became the main focal points of the game.

As the minutes on the clock ticked away agonisingly slowly, coupled with us not adding to our goal tally… the possibility of an upset increased.

Burnley though, still failed to trouble our defensive line… and I had come to terms with the fact that we weren’t going to score more goals.

We hit the post, should’ve had a penalty, and Havertz could’ve been sent off for an extremely clumsy challenge… However, more importantly… we saw the game out. We took all precious 3 points. Once again, 1-0 to The Arsenal was enough!!

A hard fought, ugly, bruising victory… put the pressure back on to Mancheatster City.

The Gunners showed incredible battling qualities, and presented more examples, that we’re more determined than ever… to win this league.

Who was your man of the match?

What would your starting 11 be, to face Crystal Palace?

Who is your player of the season?

Let me know in the comments as usual. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

All the talk about The Arsenal “Over celebrating” after reaching the Champions League final, is unmitigated nonsense. The ex-pro’s, the mainstream football media, and the rival fans… are just salty, and the salt is sprinkled on top of sour grapes.

Aaaanywhoooo… we’ve barely had time to catch our breath, and we’re back to Premier League business. We have to navigate a difficult away game against West Ham.

It’s a game that’ll bring the hammer blow down on The Hammers, and a hammer blow down on Mancheatster City too… IF we win.

A win will probably mean relegation for West Ham, and probably ends City’s title hopes. I will once again, send up 115 prayers.

I’m hoping Arteta goes with the same starting 11 from the Atletico game, as not only will the players be confident after reaching the final… but THAT starting 11 have brought out the best in the fans, and in turn, the fans have brought out the best in the players.

This is the Declan Derby, and he’ll need to keep his emotions in check, as he takes on his beloved West Ham. I’m sure he will, as all season Rice has shown that it doesn’t matter who the opposition is, he will perform superbly.

The starting lineup was Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Gabriel and Saliba central, and Ben White at right-back.

In midfield it was Rice, Eze, Lewis-Skelly… and up front, it was… Trossard on the left, Gyokeres through the middle, and Saka on the right.

The SAME starting 11 for a third game in-a-row. I LOVE IT!! The attacking intent is there for all to see.

The West Ham fans were loud, and ready to roar their team to victory… ready to be that “Twelfth man”. Their home form is respectable, and they’re not about to allow a London rival, to spoil that. Not to mention they’re under the threat of relegation.

We ignored the rally cries of the home fans, and got straight down to our football business.

Fluidity, movement, forward passing, and attacking prowess… was etched all over our play. The Arsenal were playing the game, and not the occasion.

Calafiori was put through on goal, and he tried to poke the ball home with the outside of his left foot, instead of the better option… which was to use his right.

Trossard had a headed effort hit the woodwork, when it looked easier to score… and even though we were the team in the ascendancy, in the first 20 minutes… I took the missed chances as a sign, that it was going to be one of THOSE days.

In the 28^th minute Ben White had to go off injured, with what is believed to be a knee injury. Benny Blanco has been so unlucky with injuries this season, so it’s a real shame he’s picked up another one… just when he seemed to be getting back to his best form.

I automatically thought, ok we’ll bring on Mosquera… he’s a more than capable replacement. Mikel Arteta though, must’ve thought to himself “I need to do something absolutely INSAAAAANE, unprovoked” …and then he brought on Zubimendi, and moved Declan “The Invulnerable Warrior” Rice, to right-back.

Confusion, tagged concern… and they both linked arms, and clotheslined me in the throat.

I just couldn’t understand how living in a midfield world WITHOUT Rice, would help us. That’s not living… THAT’S just surviving.

There was an immediate momentum shift… West Ham started to see more of the ball, and were dominating the midfield area. They were still playing it safe though, and remained in their defensive shape.

The referee blew the half-time whistle, and the Gunners were left ruing the earlier missed opportunities. 0-0 at the break, and an unwelcome reminder… that this wasn’t going to easy.

Arteta recognised how crazy it was to play Rice at right-back, and at the start of the second half, he withdrew Calafiori, and brought on Mosquera.

This meant that Lewis-Skelly would drop back into the left-back position, Mosquera would got to right-back, and Declan “The Invulnerable Warrior” Rice, would retake his place in midfield, next to Zubimendi.

Like a dealer in a casino, there was A LOT of shuffling around… and unnecessarily too.

With Lewis-Skelly at left-back, we missed his dynamism, his directness, and his willingness to run at the opposition. This encouraged West Ham to recover the ball quicker, and break through our lines more regularly.

We seemed to of run out of ideas, and in the 67^th minute, Arteta attempted to replenish our idea stock.

Odegaard replaced Eze, and the ineffective Zubimendi, was replaced by Havertz.

Zubaaaah-Zubaaaah, didn’t have a good game… but I believe he’s still tired, after playing so many games this season… without a winter break, which is something he was used to having when he played in Spain. His body needs to get used to the new demands, of the English football calander. He had a good season nonetheless, and next season, will be even better!

The substitutions swung the momentum back in our favour. Kai Havertz was making clever runs, and pulling players out of position, which created space for others.

Martin Odegaard was using said space, very productively. He was connecting the play beautifully, between the midfield and the attack… but the final ball was lacking.

In the 78^th minute, Fernandes was put clean through on the Arsenal goal, after an excellent move from West Ham… and one-on-one with Raya, he failed to score.

David Raya made himself bigger than a row of giants, standing on each other’s shoulders… and made a magnificent save!! A match winning save!! A title winning save!! Sensational, from the Arsenal keeper.

The save inspired his teammates, and just 5 minutes later… Odegaard played the ball to Trossard, after some lovely work in the box created space. Trossard struck the ball first time… and Soucek lunged desperately, attempting to block the shot… but it deflected in. GOOOOAAAAAAAAL!!!!!! 1-0 to The Arsenal. What a relief! Still time on the clock though, so of course… there was nervousness.

In the 95^th minute, the unthinkable happened. West Ham had a corner, Raya came out to catch the ball… missed it, and the ball broke to Callum Wilson, who fired the ball in.

I couldn’t believe it… I was just getting ready to write-off the remainder of my weekend, and all of next week, until they commentary team said VAR were checking something.

I asked “Lessness” to leave, so hope and I, could watch the VAR check.

My heart was beating out of my chest, my heartrate just said “Danger” repeatedly. My blood pressure was higher than the cost of living. They were taking FOREVER to make their decision… I had already aged 73 years during this game, I couldn’t afford anymore.

The replays showed that Raya was fouled. His arm was being pulled down, to prevent him from catching the ball, and he was being held across his neck. In addition to that, his shirt was also being pulled.

However, I still wasn’t confident that the West Ham goal would be chalked off. I was wrong. The referee said “After review, the number 19 (Pablo Felipe) fouled the goalkeeper… final decision, Arsenal free-kick”.

I was momentarily stunned into silence… and then… I let out a combination of a roar, and a cheer, at decibel levels that surely offended my neighbours. NO GOAL!!

We saw the remainder of the game out, and won 1-0. Once again, 1-0 to The Arsenal… was enough to win the day, and hopefully… the league.

An enthralling game to watch. The West Ham players surrounded the ref at full-time, but that’s their problem… I’m here for Arsenal business, and we did… the business. The hammer blow.

The reaction from pundits, and ex-pros, to a CORRECT decision that the ref made, is HILARIOUS. They hate The Arsenal soooooooo much, that they wanted the ref NOT to apply the rules. (HAHAHAHAH)

Their hatred, and their tears, continue make us stronger.

We now have 2 more cup finals to play, and next up, we face Burnley at The Emirates.

Should Odegaard start against Burnley?

Do you think we now have the title wrapped up?

Would you start Havertz against Burnley, and give Gyokeres a breather?

Let me know in the comments as usual. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

It’s the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, and we’re at the Emirates. We managed to take a 1-1 draw home, even after being blatantly robbed of a penalty.

I hope Arteta uses that injustice, to fire up the players.

We went out of the competition at this stage last season, and we cannot allow history to repeat itself. If we play like we did against Fulham though, Atletico are in all sorts of trouble.

The Emirates crowd will be just as loud as they were against Fulham, if not…LOUDER, because that penalty debacle, still leaves a bitter taste in the mouth.

I don’t just want a victory, I want to humiliate them. A 4-0 drubbing, would be just the tonic.

The starting lineup was Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Gabriel and Saliba central, and Ben White at right-back.

In midfield it was Rice, Eze, Lewis-Skelly… and up front, it was… Trossard on the left, Gyokeres through the middle, and Saka on the right.

The Emirates faithful were in full voice, and had been since the team bus arrived, hours before.

Players’ coach was greeted by thousands of fans serenading them, with lit flares, and shouting words of encouragement… and it continued in the stadium at kick-off.

Very rarely, had the Emirates been this loud, this intimidating, this buoyant, this jubilant.

They sensed something in air, that something special would happen this night… and the Arsenal players responded… but the players looked like they KNEW, something special would happen.

There was a look of determination, a renewed confidence, an understanding… that we’re superior to this team.

We took the game to Atletico from the first whistle, and they quickly understood that they were now in OUR HOUSE, and there’s nothing here for them, except disappointment, despair… and defeat.

The enemy retreated into their predictable defensive shape, and the Gunners took aim, looked through the scope, and searched for the best ways to hit the target.

We passed, probed, and persisted… but couldn’t find a way through. We had to exercise patience, and show our professionalism.

The Arsenal were controlling the midfield, and our attackers were looking razor sharp, and ready to cut at a moment’s notice… Atletico however, were not in the mood for a trim.

We had chances, and they had half chances, but the first half looked destined to finish 0-0… up until the 44^th minute.

The ball was played into Gyokeres, and he held the ball up brilliantly, and found Trossard. Trossard twisted, and turned, and made space for a shot… which the keeper saved. Fortunately for us, the shot was spilled… and Bukayo Saka was the quickest to react, and he cleaned up the spillage, and tapped the ball home. 1-0 to The Arsenal!!

As usual, our “Starboy” was doing “Starboy” things… scoring the opener in a semi-final, just before half-time. Big game player!!

It was pandemonium in the stadium… there was an eruption of wild celebrations, and the cheers sounded wonderful. The symphonic roars sounded like a fan orchestra… and the players were the conductors.

The referee blew his whistle for half-time, and we could catch our breath.

Mikel Arteta didn’t need to say anything to the players at half-time, except… “Same again”… as we managed Atletico Madrid in that half. We didn’t even need to exert ourselves too much, such was our control.

The second half started, and Atletico set up in the same defensive shape. They sat deep, showed no attacking intent, and dared us to break them down. We did try, but exercised caution, as we had a lead to protect after all.

They started to break up our play with deliberate, persistent fouling… that the referee casually allowed to go unpunished.

In the 58^th minute, Hincapie came on for Calafiori, Madueke replaced Saka, and Odegaard replaced Eze.

 We could afford to rest players, as Atletico still refused to attack, and we’re still involved in a title race… and Arteta rightly so, turned his thoughts towards that.

The game just like in the first leg, had turned scrappy… and the Gunners just had to not do anything silly, and see the game out. Navigate their way through the niggly fouls, and the anti-football antics.

More substitutions were made in the 74^th minute, and the 83^rd minute, when Zubimendi replaced Lewis-Skelly, and Martinelli came on for Trossard.

We couldn’t add to our lead, but more importantly, they couldn’t get on the scoresheet. I won’t keep you in suspense… we won the game. 1-0 to The Arsenal, was enough to send us through to OUR FIRST CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL IN 20 YEARS!!! 20 YEEEAAAAARS!!!

The scenes were beautiful at the full-time whistle. The players, the fans, Arteta, and the coaching staff… all celebrating together… after all their hard work. Like I said, beautiful!

We deserved to get to the final too, because we won the league phase, conceded the least goals, won the most games… and we’re STILL unbeaten in the competition.

We’re in the final, because we deserve it!! Those are the facts, and anything else, is just negative noise.

It was a complete team performance. We were excellent in every area.

Gyokeres ran the channels tirelessly, held up the ball, and threw his weight around. The Atletico defenders were petrified, and didn’t get a moments peace. It was yet another flawless performance from Gyokeres.

Again, Myles Lewis-Skelly was exceptional in the midfield. Especially for one so young. Lets not forget, that he’s still only 19 years old… and he’s playing with an assurance, and a level of composure, that’s way beyond his tender years.

His passing, his decision making, his tackling, his ball carrying… was superb. Credit to Arteta for being brave enough to play Lewis-Skelly, over Zubimendi, in a Champions League semi-final.

Declan Rice was sensational!! I am running out of superlatives to describe his brilliance.

He sensed danger, and snuffed it out immediately! He also made key tackles, and was calm in areas of the pitch, where others may of panicked. He was a one-man wall of determination, and composure, in front of the defence.

Gabriel, and Saliba, once again underlined the fact that they’re the best centre-back pairing in the world. They read the game…  won every header, they put their body on the line with brave blocks. Like I said earlier, it truly was a complete performance from The Arsenal.

We now have a Champions Leage final to look forward to.

West Ham are our next opponents, and it’ll no doubt be a difficult game… but a game we’ll go into with confidence.

Should Arteta go with the same starting 11?

Who was your man of the match?

Do you think we’re going to do the double?

Let me know in the comments as usual. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

Arsenal family, Gunners faithful, Gooners contingent… we have the chance to once again put some daylight, between ourselves, and Mancheatster City.

A win against Fulham today, will put us 6 points clear at the top of the table.

The Emirates needs to be rocking, as the Arsenal players will need all the help they can get, during this pressure game.

The right support can put energy back into their legs, give them confidence, and reduce The Cottagers, to noting more than a pie.

This feels very much like the decisive derby, because I have a feeling that City will drop points in the their next two games. I’m going to send up 115 prayers.

The starting lineup was Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Gabriel and Saliba central, and Ben White at right-back.

In midfield it was Rice, Eze, Lewis-Skelly… and up front, it was… Trossard on the left, Gyokeres through the middle, and Saka on the right.

The midfield selection excited me, because I, and many other Arsenal fans… had wanted Myles Lewis-Skelly to get a run of games in midfield. He adds a different dynamic, a different energy, he’s an excellent ball carrier, and he’ll try to beat people with driving runs. That’s something the other midfielders won’t do.

It was a brave call from Arteta, a much needed call, and most importantly… the right call.

We started the match and let Fulham know immediately, that we mean business. We were playing some wonderful football. Intricate, quick, incisive, one-touch passing.

We were energetic, purposeful, and our movement was a sight to behold. The Emirates crowd responded with roars, cheers, and rapturous applause. It had been a while since we’d witnessed this level of attacking football.

In the 9^th minute, Saka picked up the ball on the right… invited Jimenez to take it off him, and with a drop of the shoulder, and a quick change of direction, he sent Jimenez for refreshments against his will. His attempt to adjust his body, and keep up with Saka, ended with him comically falling to the ground.

Our Starboy wasn’t done there… he took the ball to the byline, and squared it to Gyokeres, who tapped the ball in from close range. It was a lovely goal. 1-0 to The Arsenal!!

Saka had his explosive pace back, and was dribbling freely, like he’s finally shaken off that Achilles injury, and is on his way back to his best. We’ve missed him in the team, and I think some people underestimated just how much. I am NOT among those people.

We were all over The Cottagers, like wet on water… and the current the Gunners created, made it unsafe for Fulham to swim in.

In the 30^th minute, we had a goal chalked off for offside, after a VAR check… which was a real shame, because it was a great header by Calafiori, and we absolutely deserved a second goal.

Thankfully, we didn’t have to wait too long for our lead to be doubled. The 40^th minute to be precise.

The ball was played up to Gyokeres, who was on his own in enemy territory… He didn’t panic, held up the ball superbly… spotted Saka’s intelligent run, and played him in on goal.

Saka, the personification of composure… stroked the ball past Leno, at his near post. A brilliant finish, and a fitting end to Gyokeres’ great hold-up play. 2-0 to The Arsenal!!

That’s a goal, and an assist each, for both Gyokeres, and Saka. They seem to be forming an understanding at just the right time, and long may it continue.

I couldn’t believe I felt relaxed, as we’d previously had narrow 1-0 leads in other games, that felt like it could be snatched away at any time. It had never felt like that today, due to how well we’d been playing, and how dangerous our attack looked. It wasn’t “If” we score, but “When” we score. I’d missed that feeling… and I welcomed it back, and embraced it warmly, like a long lost relative.

We kept playing our attacking football, and continued to push for more goals, and The Cottagers continued struggling to cope with it.

In the fourth minute of injury time, the ball was played through to Trossard on the left, and he played an exquisite chipped pass to Gyokeres in the box, who headed the ball home. It was another great move. 3-0 to The Arsenal!!

The third goal felt like the devastating blow, in this decisive derby. The referee blew his whistle for half-time, and the players went off to an ovation… coupled with roars, and cheers. The noise was deafening… and a welcoming sound, to inspire the team further… and show appreciation.

With a three goal lead, and the second leg of the Champions League semi-final looming, Arteta smartly made some substitutions… to rest players.

Madueke replaced Saka, at half-time… Zubimendi came on for Rice in the 64^th minute, and Gabriel Jesus replaced Gyokeres.

There was no change to our dominance, we controlled every area of the pitch… and though Fulham probably wanted the game to be over, there was no let-up in sight.

Max Dowman came on for Eze in the 78^th minute, and Mosquera replaced Ben White in the 83^rd minute.

We had other chances to increase our lead, and probably should’ve won the game 5-0… but the match ended 3-0, and that was more than good enough.

It was a complete performance from The Arsenal, a statement win… a win that sent a message to Mancheatster City, and the rest of the football world.

A magnificent centre-forward display from Gyokeres. He fought, used his strength, chased lost causes, held the ball up… and in addition to that, he got 2 goals, and an assist. He really was sensational, and fully deserves all the plaudits.

Myles Lewis-Skelly was excellent in midfield… considering he hadn’t played a lot of football, and hadn’t hit the heights from last season. He didn’t hide though… he constantly made himself available… he tackled, he was assured on the ball, his passing accuracy was brilliant, and he ran at the opposition.

I genuinely believe he’s given Arteta a selection headache, ahead of the game against Atletico, and I’m so happy for him, because he came in for A LOT of unfair criticism.

A resurgent Bukayo Saka, caused havoc to the Fulham defence. He ran them ragged in the 45 minutes he was on the pitch. He’s another player that had come in for unfair criticism, especially as he’s been plagued with injuries this season.

He made a lot of people eat humble pie, with a side of their own words… and wash it down with a tall glass of false narratives, and duped statistical data.

They were ready to crown City champions, after they beat us at the Etihad, and now we’re 6 points clear, at the top of the league. We’re fighting to the very end!! We’ll cope with the pressure, and we STILL believe we’re going to win the title!!

Should Lewis-Skelly start in midfield, against Atletico Madrid?

Do you think we should exercise caution against Atletico Madrid, or should we go for the jugular, straight from the start?

Would you start Madueke, or Saka, against Atletico Madrid?

Let me know in the comments as usual. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com

It’s the Champions League semi-final, and The Arsenal are away for the first leg, against Atletico Madrid. I’m dreading it to be honest, as their stadium is a cauldron… A house of hostility. A unit of unwelcomeness. A building built on a barrage of boos, and hisses… and this is what the Gunners must overcome, to win this game, or at the very least… get a draw. Not forgetting that they’re a quality team too, by the way.

Atletico Madrid have turned over some big names on their own patch, and we’re the latest big name, to try and avoid defeat here.

Atletico are on the back of a 3-2 win over Athletic Club, and The Arsenal are on the back of a 1-0 win over Newcastle.

Our Premier League form of late, may be a bit up-and-down, but our form in Champions League has been exceptional. It’s been the one constant throughout this season. Well that, and injuries.

The starting lineup was Raya in goal, Hincapie at left-back, Gabriel and Saliba central, and Ben White at right-back.

In midfield it was Rice, Odegaard, Zubimendi… and up front, it was… Martinelli on the left, Gyokeres through the middle, and Madueke on the right.

The match kicked off, and the noise from the Atletico fans was deafening! We had to play the game, and not the occasion. The good thing is, we’re an experienced team now… and we have played in all types of stadiums, and dealt with all types of atmospheres.

I was still dreading this tie, nonetheless. Atletico Madread (See what I did there) started on the front foot, which is to be expected for the home side.

Arteta tweaked our system slightly, and had Rice playing deeper, as that one man wall to protect the defence. After seeing that, I was confident that we could answer any question Atletico may ask us… emphatically.

The Gunners settled into the game, and were looking like the better team, but we had nothing to show for it.

Atletico started to sit deep, and defend in number… so space became a scarce commodity. Creativity for both teams seemed to dry up… that was until the 44^th minute, when Gyokeres was played in on goal, and as he was about to steady himself for the shot… he was shoved in the back, and the referee awarded a penalty.

I was surprised it was given, as some ref’s give them, and some don’t. It was a typical fifty-fifty incident.

Anywhoooo… up stepped Gyokeres confidently, and he smashed the penalty past Oblak. It was a great penalty, a pressure penalty… that he despatched with aplomb. 1-0 to The Arsenal!! A perfect time to score!!

The whistle blew for half-time, and we most certainly deserved our lead. Another 45 minutes like that, and we’ll take an advantage back to The Emirates for the second leg.

My nervousness dissipated, and I became convinced that we were going to win this game, no matter what the opposition threw at us… but then the second half kicked off, and Atletico Madread (I did it again! HAHA!) came out looking like a completely different team.

They showed a level of attacking intent, that just wasn’t there in the first half. We were on the ropes, but we were still standing. We didn’t even stagger. We took their best hits, and smiled… but unfortunately, the officials decided to give Atletico a helping hand.

In the 56^th minute a sliced shot from Llorente bounced off Ben White’s knee, and hit his hand, and the referee pointed to the spot. A sickening decision, but this is how the handball rule has been dealt with in the Champions League this season. (Unfortunately)

Alvarez scored the resulting penalty, and just like that… the score was 1-1. I sighed the longest siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh, and it felt like The Arsenal had once again entered injustice town… and even though we don’t like it, we seem to frequent this town regularly.

Atletico were now the better team, feeding off the energy of the crowd, and the momentum swinging in their favour, after the equaliser.

Arteta reacted, and in the 58^th minute Odegaard was replaced by Eze, and in the 68^th minute… Trossard came on for Martinelli, Saka for Madueke, and Jesus replaced Gyokeres.

I like that Mikel Arteta made these substitutions to try something different, and the timing of it.

Trossard, and Saka, looked rusty at first… like they struggled to adapt to the pace of the game, but once they caught up, we looked a lot better, and regained some control of the tie.

Atletico were still having shot, after shot, on our goal… and we were still dealing with it, with great efficiency… but it was time to increase our lead.

In the 80^th minute, Eze’s foot was stepped on in the box, and the referee awarded ANOTHER penalty. This was too good to be true! Two penalties in one match, IN OUR FAVOUR… just doesn’t happen to us, but let’s be clear… it WAS a stonewall penalty!! However, the ref was advised by VAR to review the incident on screen, and once the ref went to the monitor… I knew it wasn’t going to be good news for us.

The Referee viewed the incident multiple times, which means it wasn’t “Clear and obvious” so his original decision should’ve stood, HOWEVER… the ref allowed his decision to be swayed by the Atletico crowd, and instead of remaining strong… the ref wilted, like a flower needing water, and starved of sunlight.

He overturned his decision, and we were denied a blatant penalty. The ref had singlehandedly, changed the complexity of the tie.

WE WERE ROBBED!!! It was a disgraceful decision, and further proof that VAR doesn’t go by it’s own rules… as I was under the impression that if it’s NOT “Clear and obvious” then the referee’s decision SHOULD stand.

I have to keep reminding myself, that The Arsenal are just officiated differently.

Mosquera came on for White in the 86th minute, but by then… the game just felt over… and it was. We never really recovered from that ludicrous decision. The match finished 1-1.

A draw away from home in a European two-legged semi-final tie, is NEVER a bad result… but it feels like one, because of that awful decision to overturn our penalty.

We’ll get them back to the Emirates, and exact our revenge next week. In the meantime though, we look ahead to a tricky game at home, against Fulham.

Should we appeal over the penalty decision?

Do some players need to be rested for the Fulham game?

Would you start Odegaard, or Eze, against Fulham?

Let me know in the comments as usual. COYG!!

Please check out my YouTube channel: @Gunnersayit

Also check out my TikTok: @gunnersayit.com