Arsenal produced a dominant performance in north London, dismantling Leeds 5-0 in a match that combined emphatic football with major talking points on and off the pitch. Viktor Gyokeres scored his first goals for the club, while Jurrien Timber and Bukayo Saka also played key roles before injuries cast a shadow over the win.
Before kick-off, the crowd at the Emirates was lifted by the unveiling of Eberechi Eze, the Gunners’ latest £60m signing. The introduction of the England midfielder created a jubilant atmosphere that seemed to set the tone for the display that followed.
Timber and Saka set the tempo
Arsenal wasted little time asserting their dominance. Timber opened the scoring by heading in from a trademark set piece, giving the hosts early control. The defender then turned provider, sending in a delivery that allowed Saka to smash home a powerful finish just before half-time.
The Emirates erupted again, but the joy was short-lived for Saka, who later limped off in the second half with an injury. Earlier in the game, captain Martin Odegaard was also forced off on his 200th club appearance, leaving Mikel Arteta with fresh concerns despite the commanding scoreline.
Gyokeres off the mark in style
For Gyokeres, Arsenal’s £64m striker signing, it was an afternoon to remember. The Swedish forward announced himself to the home fans with a solo effort for the third goal, weaving into the penalty box before slotting a precise low shot past goalkeeper Lucas Perri.
As Leeds struggled to contain Arsenal’s attacking rhythm, Timber struck again from a corner, notching his second of the match and underlining his impact at both ends of the pitch.
Teenage debutant Dowman makes history
The closing stages saw Arsenal fans witness a piece of history. Arteta introduced 15-year-old Max Dowman, giving the teenager his first taste of Premier League action. He replaced Noni Madueke, who was making his first start for the Gunners.
Dowman made an immediate mark, drawing a foul from Anton Stach inside the area. With almost the final kick of the game, Gyokeres converted the penalty, sealing his brace and Arsenal’s fifth goal.
At just 15 years and 234 days old, Dowman became the second-youngest player ever to appear for Arsenal, behind Ethan Nwaneri, who debuted in September 2022 at 15 years and 181 days.
