The Emirates Stadium erupted. Arsenal had delivered a statement, dismantling Tottenham 4-1 in a North London derby that will be remembered for years to come. It wasn’t just a win; it was a declaration of intent, pushing the Gunners six points clear at the Premier League summit.
At the heart of the triumph was Eberechi Eze, a summer signing who instantly ignited the Arsenal attack. He didn’t just score; he orchestrated a masterclass, bagging a hat-trick that left Spurs reeling. The performance wasn’t a surprise to his manager, Mikel Arteta, who revealed a relentless dedication behind the scenes.
Arteta spoke of Eze’s immediate hunger after returning from international duty. While others rested, Eze was on the training ground, seeking extra practice, peppering his manager with questions. This unwavering desire, combined with exceptional talent, is a potent combination, and one Arteta believes will unlock even greater potential.
The victory wasn’t a one-man show. Leandro Trossard also earned special praise, his aggressive play and effectiveness both with and without the ball proving pivotal. Arteta made it clear Trossard was “forbidden” to leave in the summer, recognizing his ability to elevate the team’s performance.
Arteta highlighted Eze’s unique ability to finish chances from any angle, a quality that adds an unpredictable edge to Arsenal’s attack. He emphasized the importance of playing Eze in positions where he can leverage this skill, close to the box, creating opportunities for both himself and teammates.
Beyond the goals, Arteta was impressed by Eze’s ambition. The player reportedly made his desire to join Arsenal clear during a phone call last summer, driven by a hunger to win and achieve greatness. That ambition is now translating into electrifying performances on the pitch.
The win felt particularly sweet following a frustrating draw against Sunderland before the international break. That result had left a “bitter feeling” despite a strong run of form. This derby victory served as a powerful reset, reigniting the momentum and sending a message to their rivals.
Despite the comfortable lead, Arteta remained grounded. Six points is significant, but he cautioned that the Premier League is notoriously unpredictable. The margins between success and failure are razor-thin, and consistency is paramount.
The team’s application, energy, and unwavering desire to improve are the driving forces behind their success. Arteta senses a collective commitment to being the best version of themselves, a willingness to fight for every point, and a relentless pursuit of victory.
Mikel Merino’s performance also drew significant attention. Asked to play an unfamiliar role as a central striker, he excelled, showcasing intelligence, work ethic, and a selfless commitment to the team. Arteta praised his ability to make others better, highlighting his value beyond traditional defensive duties.
This wasn’t just a derby win; it was a testament to the team’s spirit, a showcase of individual brilliance, and a clear signal of Arsenal’s intent. The Emirates Stadium had witnessed something special, a performance that will resonate long after the final whistle.
