Arsenal Celebrate Saka’s Milestone but Worry Over Double Injury in West Ham Clash
Bukayo Saka marked his 200th Premier League appearance in the best possible way, inspiring Arsenal to a fourth straight win across all competitions. The 23-year-old winger was once again the difference-maker, coolly converting from the penalty spot to record his 100th goal involvement in the Premier League 55 goals and 45 assists after Declan Rice had opened the scoring against his former club.
It was a night of milestones all round. Mikel Arteta, in charge for his 300th match as Arsenal boss, continued to prove why his side are being taken seriously as title contenders. No team has collected more points (22) over the last nine Premier League games than the Gunners, who have already navigated tricky trips to Old Trafford, Anfield, and St James’ Park. Confidence is rising, and momentum is clearly on their side.
But the celebrations came with a tinge of worry. Both Martin ØdegaardandDeclan Rice limped off with knee and back issues, raising fresh fitness concerns. Ødegaard’s departure was especially frustrating. The captain, who had impressed in midweek against Olympiacos, looked set to put his injury troubles behind him before a painful collision forced him to admit defeat despite two brave attempts to carry on.
Still, Arsenal’s attacking edge never faded. Rice, booed by the travelling West Ham fans throughout, showed little emotion when he turned in the rebound for the opener, though he couldn’t resist a glance back at the supporters who once adored him. Moments later, Riccardo Calafiori nearly doubled the lead with a thunderous shot that rattled the post.
Arsenal twice saw penalty appeals waved away, but when Jurrien Timber was brought down by Malick Diouf, the referee finally pointed to the spot. This time there was no debate the ball was Saka’s. And he made no mistake, smashing it past Areola to seal the win. Remarkably, Saka has now been directly involved in nine goals against West Ham in just seven league outings.
For Viktor Gyökeres, however, it was another night of frustration. The Swedish striker, once prolific for Sporting CP and a recent recipient of the Gerd Müller Trophy, is now without a goal in six games, despite seeing chances fall his way.
In the end, Arsenal’s 2–0 victory was not only their first win in six league meetings with West Ham but also the perfect send-off before the international break. With Saka hitting landmarks, Arteta making history, and the team climbing with conviction, the Gunners look more like genuine challengers by the week even if the injury worries cast a small shadow over a proud night.
